Real Madrid have reportedly secured a contract extension that will keep one of their most promising defensive talents at the Santiago Bernabeu until 2031. The Spanish giants have moved swiftly to tie down their breakthrough performer following an exceptional campaign.
After joining Real Madrid’s prestigious academy from Las Palmas in 2017, Raul Asencio has transformed from a hopeful prospect into an indispensable first-team player through sheer determination and unwavering commitment.
According to COPE journalist Miguel Angel Diaz, Asencio has committed his long-term future to Los Blancos following a breakthrough season that has left fans and pundits alike singing his praises.
What makes this story even more compelling is how the defender seized his moment when fate came knocking – injuries to Eder Militao and David Alaba’s prolonged absence created an unexpected opportunity that Asencio grabbed with both hands.
Rather than merely plugging gaps in the defensive line, the versatile defender made the position entirely his own through a series of commanding performances that caught the attention of Carlo Ancelotti and the club’s sporting hierarchy.
His meteoric rise reached its pinnacle with a call-up to the Spanish national team in March 2025, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most exciting defensive prospects.
The previous contract, which was set to expire in 2026, included a €50 million release clause that has now been completely removed as part of the new agreement.
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Numbers that tell the whole story
Statistics often paint the clearest picture, and Asencio’s breakthrough campaign has been nothing short of sensational. The centre-back accumulated an impressive 42 first-team appearances across all competitions, racking up over 3,066 minutes of invaluable playing time.
His contributions weren’t limited to defensive duties either. The young defender chipped in with two assists while maintaining the exacting standards demanded at the world’s most successful football club.
What truly sets Asencio apart is his remarkable composure under pressure. From the cauldron-like atmosphere of Champions League nights to the intensity of domestic cup competitions, he has navigated every challenge with maturity that belies his tender years.
The coaching staff have been particularly impressed with his tactical flexibility, praising his seamless transitions between centre-back and right-back positions when circumstances required adaptation.
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Strategic planning meets perfect timing
The contract renewal couldn’t have come at a more opportune moment for Real Madrid’s long-term defensive strategy. While the club recently completed the acquisition of Dean Huijsen, the promising Spanish-Dutch centre-back who turned heads during his stint at Bournemouth, this signing is viewed as complementary rather than competitive to Asencio’s development.
The improved contract terms, including a substantially enhanced salary package, reflect Asencio’s elevated status within the squad hierarchy. Despite facing competition from established stars like Antonio Rüdiger and the eventual return of Militao, the young defender has proven beyond doubt that he belongs among the club’s elite defensive options.
Asencio’s exceptional character, lightning-quick reflexes, anticipation skills, and innate ability to read the game have made him an invaluable asset within the squad.
