Real Madrid defender’s injury unlikely to derail his expected summer exit – report

Pre-season is always a dangerous time for players to pick up injuries, especially when the club are looking for a way to move them on this summer.

Real Madrid find themselves in such a situation with regard to Raul Asencio, who has suffered a muscle injury and will be out for six weeks.

However, according to MARCA, Asencio’s summer departure from Los Blancos is still expected to move forward despite the setback.

The problem is considered minor and will not affect Real Madrid’s plans to sell or loan the academy graduate before the transfer window closes.

Injury news sets the cat among the pigeons

Real Madrid confirmed that Asencio has suffered an injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right leg.

Injury not serious. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

While the club did not confirm how long he would be out for, it is expected to be a matter of weeks rather than days.

Despite this, it seems the club are not considering the injury serious enough to threaten their transfer plans this summer.

Asencio returned for pre-season hoping to convince Jose Mourinho that he deserved a place in the team, but he is not considered part of the coach’s plans for the coming campaign.

Los Merengues have already strengthened the defence and remain interested in making further changes, leaving the 23-year-old facing limited opportunities if he stays.

The defender has been reluctant to leave, yet the club’s position appears firm.

A loan could offer him regular football while preserving Real Madrid’s control, although a permanent sale would provide more immediate financial value.

Still expected to depart. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Real Madrid cannot allow the situation to drift

Asencio did start Real Madrid’s pre-season game against Leganes, but not much can be read into Mourinho opting to use him in the absence of the other regulars.

Despite his talent, there is a feeling that Los Blancos need to have a much better central defensive unit to compete for trophies on all fronts.

A number of talented youngsters seem set to make way this summer in search of new opportunities.

Gonzalo Garcia has already secured a move that would see him join Premier League club Fulham, and Asencio could be next in line.

Ultimately, it all depends on the Spaniard’s recovery from injury, and this could be a transfer that happens closer to the end of the window, as Asencio nears full recovery.