In a recent report, Fichajes mentioned that Newcastle United have identified Real Madrid ace Marco Asensio as a target. It has been claimed that the Magpies are eyeing a move to acquire the services of the Spain international.
Asensio’s Campaign Of Mixed Emotions In Spanish Football
Asensio is serving as a sporadic presence in Carlo Ancelotti’s match-day squad this season but has managed to put in a run of impressive performances for Los Blancos in the final third. The 27-year-old has featured in 31 matches for the Madrid outfit during this campaign, finding the back of the net on six occasions and picking up five assists in the process across all competitions.
The 35-time Spain international has made most of his appearances off the bench which could be why he is averaging 1.5 shots, 0.9 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per 90 minutes in La Liga. He has even been accurate with his ball distribution after completing 89.9% of his attempted passes in the top tier of Spanish football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is set to expire at the end of this campaign. Thus, the Magpies could sign him as a free agent in the summer.
What Will Asensio Add To Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe’s Side?
Asensio is proficient at finding space for himself to get a few strikes in at goal. He has got the vision to engineer a few meaningful chances in the final third and can make a few dangerous runs with the ball out on the wide areas. He is primarily a right-winger but can also fill in as a left-sided wide player or as an attacking midfielder down the middle if his manager tells him to do so.
We can expect Asensio to add more goals and creativity to Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe‘s frontline and could help the Magpies challenge for a top-four finish once again next season.
The fact that Asensio is available on a free transfer makes him a shrewd option for the Tyneside club to pursue in the summer. However, there are some concerns over his injury record and whether he can cope with the physical side and high intensity of English football.
Still, the pros outweigh the cons of recruiting Asensio as he is a technically gifted footballer who could prove himself to be a success story at St. James’ Park over the next few years.
