Real Madrid attacker Marco Asensio would reportedly favour a move to AC Milan over Liverpool as he would be guaranteed a starting place with the Italian champions.
According to the Spanish publication Sport, the Spain international is a transfer target of Liverpool and is a player that Jurgen Klopp admires. But he is uncertain of a move to Merseyside owing to concerns over a starting place in Liverpool’s XI.
Asensio’s contract with La Liga champions expires next year, so he will probably be available at a cut-price this window. He considerably interests various European clubs who want to take advantage of his contract situation at the Bernabeu.
But Liverpool is considered the frontrunner for his signature as the Reds are looking to strengthen their forward options after the departure of Sadio Mane to Bayern Munich.
But the attacking options available at Liverpool means that Asensio, who has been a rare starter in Madrid, is afraid of that also being the case In Klopp’s team.
At Anfield, Asensio will have to battle Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz, Roberto Firmino and new signing Darwin Nunez for a starting spot. And so, he is more convinced that moving to AC Milan would benefit his career.
The Serie A champions do not possess the same attacking depth as Liverpool, and Asensio would be a key player in their squad.
However, AC Milan reportedly do not have the financial might to match what Liverpool are willing to offer to Asensio both in terms of the transfer fee to Real Madrid and player’s wages.
Meanwhile, Asensio recently told reporters that there were ‘possibilities’ of a move away from Real Madrid this summer.
“I have one year left on my contract. Now, I am focused on the national team,” he said.
“When this is over, we will talk. We will see what I will do with my future. I think there are possibilities. There is also the option to stay and fulfil my contract year.
“Rumours are part of football, and more so at Real Madrid. High-level players are always associated with it. It’s something we have to live with.”
Asensio currently earns around £138,000 per week in Madrid.
