Raul Asencio's breakthrough, a new era for Real Madrid's defence

The 20-year-old defender's impressive 60-minute performance for Real Madrid against Osasuna on November 9 has not only skyrocketed his popularity, with his Instagram followers more than doubling to over 400,000, but also shifted the course of his football future.

Asencio's debut under Carlo Ancelotti was nothing short of spectacular. The match ended with a 4-0 victory, a clean sheet, and an assist to Jude Bellingham, marking his arrival in the senior team with confidence. However, his sudden prominence has stirred things up in the transfer market.

Clubs that had been quietly working on securing the Castilla player's signature, including top-flight sides like Girona and Celta Vigo, as well as a prominent Portuguese club, now face a much more difficult challenge. Real Madrid's plan to keep him have gained momentum, making it increasingly unlikely that Asencio will leave in January, and much more expensive if they entertain a move in the summer.

This was not the first time Asencio had caught the eye. During the summer transfer window, the young defender was considered one of La Fabrica's most coveted talents. Despite numerous offers, Madrid's hefty demands, coupled with Raul's reluctance to lose such a key figure in the academy, meant that he stayed put.

Yet, the interest has not faded, with several clubs still keen on securing his services. With his recent breakthrough, however, Real Madrid are now determined to block any future moves for the defender.

One key question in the coming months will be whether Madrid choose to make Asencio a permanent fixture in the first team. His contract runs until 2026, and given the club's current defensive struggles, his emergence could offer a timely solution.

Many within the club see Asencio as a potential new Nacho, a product of the academy who can seamlessly integrate into the first team and strengthen the defence, which has been frail at times this season.

Alongside Asencio, Madrid's academy also boasts other talented defenders, such as Victor Valdepenas, Jacobo Ramon, Diego Aguado and Joan Martinez, all of whom are seen as key prospects for the future.

As Real Madrid assess their defensive options, these young players could provide the club with much-needed depth without relying on costly signings in the market.

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