Real Madrid wanted to sign another centre-back this summer after signing Dean Huijsen. They were looking to strike a deal with Liverpool for Ibrahima Konate.
But the Reds were not ready to part ways with their centre-back. They are trying to renew his contract, which is set to expire next year.
Also, throughout the summer, there were talks about one particular player leaving Real Madrid. Yes, the rumours about Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior were making headlines.
But there were huge possibilities that Xabi Alonso would part ways with another player he doesn’t rate highly.
It is quite natural, especially after what happened at the Club World Cup. Real Madrid were one of the favourites to win the inaugural quadrennial tournament.
Madrid started off well in the tournament, even though drawing against Al-Hilal was unexpected for the 15-time Champions League winners.
The Los Blancos faced the current Champions League winners, PSG, in the semi-final of the Club World Cup. And the Parisians humiliated Real Madrid by defeating them 4-0.
Two of the four goals conceded by Real Madrid were due to defensive errors from Antonio Rudiger and Raul Asencio.
After that game, Xabi Alonso knew that he needed to change many things at the club if he wanted to prevent another trophyless season at Santiago Bernabeu.
In the first three La Liga games of the season, Xabi Alonso didn’t start Raul Asencio. The Spanish boss wanted the defender to leave the club.
Also, he wanted Madrid to sign another centre-back to replace the Spaniard. But with Real Madrid failing to sign another centre-back, Xabi Alonso has made a decision.
According to AS (via Fichajes), Turkish club Besiktas wanted to sign Raul Asencio. However, Xabi Alonso has blocked that move.
As Real Madrid failed to sign a new centre-back, Raul Asencio will continue with Real Madrid for the time being.
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
