Asencio agrees Real Madrid’s contract extension

Real Madrid are set to extend the contract of Raul Asencio, with AS reporting on Saturday that the centre-back will sign a new deal running until 30 June 2031. 

The 22-year-old will receive a significant pay rise and be handed a first-team squad number.

Los Blancos continue to build a squad for the future, and strengthening the defence has been a key objective. In addition to the recent arrival of Dean Huijsen, AS reports that Real Madrid have finalised terms with Asencio on a long-term renewal, announced on the same day the Club World Cup gets underway.

Asencio’s current contract was due to expire in 2026, but the club have moved to secure his services for five more years, matching him to a deal that now runs one season longer than Huijsen’s, which lasts until 2030. The agreement includes a substantial improvement to his salary.

As part of the new deal, Asencio will be promoted to the first-team squad, having worn the No.32 shirt throughout the season. According to the report, his release clause will be set at a symbolic €1 billion — a figure designed to deter suitors and ensure any interest comes with serious intent.

The renewal comes as a reward for an excellent breakthrough season from the Gran Canaria-born defender. At an age where many thought his future lay away from the Bernabeu, Carlo Ancelotti placed his trust in him during a defensive injury crisis — and Asencio delivered.

He made his debut on 9 November 2024 in a league match against Osasuna, turning in a composed performance and registering an assist for Vinicius Junior in Madrid’s 4-0 win.

By season’s end, Asencio had amassed 3,066 minutes across 42 appearances, 32 of them starts. He recorded two assists and bounced back admirably from a difficult night at Anfield to regain the coach’s confidence, showing himself to be a quick, reliable presence at the back.

His progress earned him a call-up to the Spanish national team for the March international window, although he did not make his debut. As a result, the academy graduate will remain a part of Madrid’s defensive plans for the next five years.

For the upcoming Club World Cup, Xabi Alonso has only three natural centre-backs at his disposal — Asencio, David Alaba, and new signing Huijsen — though Aurelien Tchouameni could also be an option.

Alonso’s intentions remain unclear ahead of Madrid’s tournament opener, scheduled for 18 June in Miami against Saudi side Al-Hilal.