Arsenal made a move to sign Real Madrid ace Marco Asensio this summer, offering £34million for him whilst Tottenham Hotspur only offered a loan deal.
That’s according to Spanish outlet Cadena SER, who claim that a number of clubs came forward with offers for Asensio.
In the end though, Carlo Ancelotti promised Asensio that he would play regularly this season, so he stayed at Real Madrid.
Arsenal and Tottenham both wanted Asensio
Cadena SER claim that Arsenal put hard cash on the table – £34million worth.
Arsenal did end up signing a creative player from Real Madrid in the end, with Martin Odegaard arriving permanently.
Signing Asensio would have been strange though. He’s a left-footed winger when Arsenal already have two in Bukayo Saka and Nicolas Pepe.
Tottenham were also keen, and discussed a deal for Asensio whilst talking about Gareth Bale with Real.
Fabio Paratici only offered a loan deal for Asensio. though, suffering the same fate as Arsenal.
Asensio has stalled since Messi comparison
Asensio, 25, looked like a star in his first two seasons at Real. 21 goals in his first two seasons painted the picture of a star in the making.
Zinedine Zidane told Asensio that his left foot reminded him of Messi – a lofty comparison even for something so small.
With 10 goals in his last two seasons, Asensio has stagnated a little. Injuries have played a role, but he needs to get back on track.
Asensio has now hit three goals in five games under Ancelotti this term, meaning Arsenal’s hopes may well be over for a while now.
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