Transfers
Alvaro Arbeloa’s push forces Mourinho to target Asencio exit
Former Real Madrid defender Alvaro Arbeloa has reportedly urged Jose Mourinho to request the departure of centre‑back Raul Asencio, according to a SPORT report, with a revamped backline already featuring three new signings.
Real Madrid have already secured three defensive arrivals: Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries. A further centre‑back signing is expected before the summer window closes.
Defence departures this season include Dani Carvajal and David Alaba, both of whom left the white club after their contracts expired.
Raul Asencio, a Spaniard with a mixed top‑level career, has never been a regular starter. The influx of new defenders makes his position increasingly untenable.
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While it was previously suggested Mourinho would evaluate his squad during preseason before approving any exits, reports now claim he has already asked Real Madrid to let Asencio go. According to the SPORT report, former Merengue manager Alvaro Arbeloa discussed with Mourinho the off‑field problems Asencio caused last season. Those incidents included Asencio’s displeasure at missing the UCL match against Manchester City and his refusal to feature in a league game versus Elche.Endrick's battle for minutes intensifies under Mourinho at Real Madrid
After the Elche episode, Arbeloa omitted Asencio from several subsequent match‑day squads, even though the defender apologised a few days later. The lingering tension appears to be influencing the current manager’s decision. It remains to be seen how Asencio’s future at Real Madrid will unfold as the club finalises its defensive roster for the upcoming campaign.