Arsenal and Man Utd target willing to become a despised figure at his club with controversial transfer decision

Real Madrid forward Marco Asensio would be willing to move to El Classico rivals Barcelona, according to reports.

Asensio's future has been cast into doubt following his lack of game time this season.

The 27-year-old was reportedly keen to stay in the Spanish capital, with his contract set to run out this summer.

However, contract negotiations have proved tricky, with Asensio's wage demands said to be one factor.

Tensions reached boiling point during Real Madrid's goalless draw with Real Betis.

After being asked to warm up on the sidelines, Carlo Ancelotti decided against sending Asensio on, visibly irritating the player.

Asensio 'open' to Barca move

Asensio's situation has attracted the attention of several European giants including AC Milan and most notably Barcelona.

SPORT report that Barcelona are aware that Asensio would be willing to listen to an offer and are deciding whether to approach the player.

It would be a controversial switch which would undoubtedly turn Los Blancos supporters against the winger.

If he was to move from one side of El Clasico, it would be the first time a senior player has gone from Real to Barca since Luis Enrique in 1996.

Arsenal and Man Utd linked to Asensio

In the meantime, the Spaniard has amassed interest from Premier League clubs Arsenal and Manchester United.

Asensio was rumoured with a move to Old Trafford in January, with Erik ten Hag seeking a long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

According to Defensa Central, the United boss turned his attentions to Asensio after Cody Gakpo's move to Liverpool.

However, Victor Osimhen is thought to be Ten Hag's top target, having recently expressed his desire to move to the Premier League.

Asensio was also linked with a move to North London over the winter transfer window, after it emerged that Real would be open to offers.

Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo claimed that Real could sell Asensio, along with a whole host of other fringe players.

The report also mentioned that the Gunners were keeping tabs on his situation, and ready to pounce should contract talks fall through.

Topics: Arsenal, Manchester United, Marco Asensio, Real Madrid, Transfers, Football, Barcelona, La Liga, Premier League, Carlo Ancelotti

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno