Overview
- Reports on Monday say Dean Huijsen is suspended and Ibrahima Konaté is injured, leaving Real Madrid short at centre-back and making 23-year-old academy graduate Raúl Asencio a likely selection.
- Asencio declined multiple summer offers from Liverpool, Chelsea and a wealthy Turkish club to remain at Real Madrid, according to Marca and outlets citing Ekrem Konur.
- He has not played this season largely because of earlier fitness and tibia issues but sources say he has recovered and his selection depends on final medical clearance.
- Off-field matters from the summer, including a reported drink-driving sanction, remain part of his public record and are noted in coverage of his sudden promotion to the squad.
- If Asencio starts and performs well, it could fast-track his career by reducing Real Madrid's need to sign a back-up and renew outside clubs' interest ahead of the January window.