Reports: Chelsea launch €135m bid for Real Madrid superstar

What's the story?

Chelsea are all set to launch a stunning €135 million bid for Real Madrid's Marco Asensio this summer, according to a report in British news outlet, The Daily Express, who sourced it from Spanish publication, Don Balon. The report claims that Los Blancos President Florentino Perez is firmly against the idea of selling, but since Zinedine Zidane does not have confidence in Asensio's abilities, the player may push through a move this summer.

In case you didn't know...

Named after Dutch great Marco van Basten, Asensio spent his youth at hometown club RCD Mallorca, making his first appearance for the senior side aged 17 in 2013. Real Madrid and Barcelona came calling for his services the next year, with Los Blancos penning a deal for €3.9 million that saw him loaned back to Mallorca for the 2014/15 season. Asensio spent the 2015/16 season on loan with Espanyol before his breakout season for Real Madrid happened in 2016/17.

The heart of the matter

The report in Don Balon claims that even if Eden Hazard does not leave Chelsea, the club are desperate to sign Marco Asensio. Alvaro Morata has reportedly been singing the praises of his former teammate, with the Blues willing to break the bank to bring the Spanish youngster into the club.

Asensio has only started in 9 games for Real Madrid this season, despite the struggles of Zinedine Zidane's preferred starters in La Liga. The 22-year-old is reportedly frustrated with the lack of chances afforded to him and seeks a move in the summer.

Rumour Reliability

3/10

Don Balon aren't exactly the most trusted of Spanish publications, so take this rumour with a pinch of salt. Coupled with the fact that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has made it known in the past that Marco Asensio is considered the future of the club, it makes it all the more unlikely.

However, what may make this particular rumour believable is the amount mentioned, given that Real Madrid may need to fund a move for Neymar, Harry Kane or even Eden Hazard.

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Author's Take:

The hype surrounding Marco Asensio has well and truly dissipated this season, given his inconsistent performances for Los Blancos. Thus, there may be a likelihood that Real Madrid may part with the youngster, especially for a fee as high as €135 million. If he does come to Chelsea, Stamford Bridge may be witness to some spectacular long-range strikes, although his streak of selfishness might frustrate fellow teammates - and manager Antonio Conte (were he to stay at the club, of course).