Raúl Asencio, his name is already making waves in the halls of Santiago Bernabéu. The young center-back has been one of the great surprises of the season.
When Real Madrid most needed to strengthen their defense, he stepped up. Without making noise, without seeking the spotlight, just playing, and he did it well.
Many doubted whether he was ready for such a big challenge. Today, no one doubts it, Asencio has delivered, more than that: he has excelled. He has shown maturity, character, and a reading of the game unusual for his age.
Madrid seeks reinforcements at the back
Despite Asencio's great performance, the white club knows they need to strengthen the defense. Injuries, the wear and tear of the season, and the demand to compete on three fronts require depth. That's why pieces are already moving in the Bernabéu offices.
One of the names that has come up is Álvaro Carreras. The left-back has performed at a high level in Lisbon, fast, technical, and with offensive projection. The type of profile that fits Madrid's style, but it won't be easy to bring him.
Carreras, a complex operation
The Lisbon club doesn't want to let him go, especially not for little money. There's talk of a figure around 50 million euros. High, yes, but not unreasonable for a player with so much potential.
Real Madrid has already shown interest and is closely following the evolution of the negotiations. Here Raúl Asencio comes into play.
A dreamed reunion
Both footballers shared a locker room in the white academy. They understand each other on and off the field. They are friends, and Asencio doesn't hide it: he wants to play with Carreras again, he wants him to return to Bernabéu.
"To Bernabéu for 50 million," Asencio would have commented in a half-serious, half-dreamy tone. Because beyond the price, what he wants is to share defense with his battle companion again.
A defense with a future
Real Madrid has always been an expert in detecting young talent and betting on it. The Asencio-Carreras duo could be part of the club's future, youth, quality, and above all, chemistry. A connection that was already proven in lower categories.
It remains to be seen if the club takes the step. If they go for Carreras. If an agreement is reached with Lisbon and if Asencio fulfills his desire to have his friend close again.