Real Madrid could still make changes before the transfer window closes, but any further business is expected to depend heavily on player departures.
One name that had emerged as a possible exit is Raul Asencio, although an untimely injury has complicated both his future and Real Madrid’s plans to bring in another defender.
According to an update from Melchor Ruiz, relayed by Defensa Central, Asencio is currently at the top of Real Madrid’s list of players who could leave the club.
Yet his recent injury has effectively put any immediate departure on hold.
The situation has also affected Jose Mourinho’s plans in the transfer market, with the Real Madrid manager keen to add a left-footed centre-back to his squad.
Raul Asencio exit put on hold by injury
Asencio suffered a muscle injury in his right rectus femoris towards the end of July, ruling him out at a time when Real Madrid were considering possible changes to their defensive department.
Asencio’s injury has disrupted Real Madrid’s transfer plans. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
The defender was not part of Mourinho’s plans from the beginning, despite having signed a contract extension last year that keeps him tied to the club until 2031.
Speaking about the situation, Melchor Ruiz said, “Asencio is at the top of Real Madrid’s list of players to leave, but his injury has disrupted the possibility of signing a left-footed centre-back, as Mourinho wanted.”
The report makes it clear that Real Madrid are unlikely to actively push an injured player towards the exit, meaning that Asencio’s situation could remain unresolved until he recovers.
If a suitable offer eventually arrives, Los Blancos could still be open to a sale, with the funds potentially helping the club finance future transfer business.
For now, though, his injury has made a move increasingly difficult before the window closes.
Search for a left-footed centre-back faces setback
Asencio’s possible departure was not simply about reducing the number of players in the squad.
Asencio has no place in Mourinho’s plans. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Rather, his exit could have opened the door for Real Madrid to sign the left-footed centre-back Mourinho wants.
The Portuguese coach is believed to see room for another option in defence, particularly one capable of offering a different profile on the left side.
However, Real Madrid’s remaining transfer plans are closely linked to outgoings, and without a departure, the club have less room to make another signing.
That leaves the Real Madrid transfer strategy in an awkward position.
The club is yet to officially close their business and remain open to further changes, but Asencio’s injury has removed one of the most realistic options for an immediate exit.