Chelsea have reportedly suffered a transfer setback after Raúl Asencio rejected an approach from the club.
Xabi Alonso wants to strengthen his defence before the new Premier League season. Chelsea have considered several centre-backs while Trevoh Chalobah continues to attract interest from Como.
According to Sports Mole, relaying Le Journal du Real, Chelsea contacted Asencio to establish whether he would consider moving to Stamford Bridge.
The 23-year-old rejected the approach because he wants to earn a role under new Real Madrid manager José Mourinho. No reliable source has reported formal negotiations between the clubs.
Asencio wants Real Madrid chance
Asencio broke into Real Madrid’s senior side during the 2024/25 campaign. Injuries to established defenders helped him gain regular minutes, but increased competition has now placed his position under pressure.
Madrid have added Ibrahima Konaté, while Antonio Rüdiger, Dean Huijsen and Éder Militão also compete at centre-back. Mourinho could therefore struggle to offer Asencio consistent starts.
The defender still prefers to remain for pre-season and show the manager he deserves a place. His contract runs until 2031, which leaves Madrid in control of any future talks.
Chelsea’s reported approach fits their wider search for another central defender. As Read Chelsea reported following the latest Maxence Lacroix update, Crystal Palace also expect a substantial fee for their France international.
Asencio would offer youth, pace and experience at a major European club. However, Chelsea must first convince the player that leaving Madrid would improve his development.
The current report remains an early transfer claim rather than evidence of an advanced deal. Asencio wants to fight for his place, while Chelsea continue to assess other defensive options.
