Marco Asensio Rejects Jose Mourinho and Fenerbahce as Inter, AC Milan, and Villarreal Circle PSG Outcast

Asensio Turns Down Fenerbahce’s Lucrative Offer in Favour of Staying in Top European Leagues

Marco Asensio, once regarded as one of the brightest talents in Spanish football, has made a firm decision about his future — and it doesn’t involve a reunion with Jose Mourinho or a stint in Turkish football. According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish international has turned down a lucrative contract offer from Fenerbahce, reportedly worth €9 million per year, opting instead to remain in one of Europe’s top five leagues.

The Situation at PSG: A Midfielder on the Margins

Asensio’s current club, Paris Saint-Germain, no longer sees the 29-year-old as a key part of their sporting project under Luis Enrique. Since his move from Real Madrid in 2023, Marco Asensio has struggled for regular playing time in the French capital, and despite occasional flashes of brilliance, he’s failed to secure a consistent starting role.

Last season, Marco Asensio spent a productive loan spell at Aston Villa, scoring three goals and providing one assist in 13 Premier League matches under Unai Emery. Though the sample size was limited, the Spaniard reminded European football that he still has the quality to play at the highest level.

Now, with PSG looking to streamline their squad and recover transfer funds, Marco Asensio is available for a reported €10 million (£8 million/$11 million) fee. With his contract expiring in June 2026, the Parisians know this summer represents one of their final opportunities to cash in.

Asensio Chooses Ambition Over Wages

Brighton & Hove Albion FC v Aston Villa FC – Premier League

Turning down Fenerbahce’s offer wasn’t just a financial decision; it was about legacy and competitiveness. The Turkish giants, now managed by Jose Mourinho, were willing to offer Marco Asensio both a leading role and a significant payday. However, the four-time Champions League winner has his sights set elsewhere.

According to sources close to the player, Marco Asensio remains determined to compete in one of Europe’s top divisions, where he can prove his worth on the biggest stages. That means sacrificing some of the financial comfort that came with PSG and a possible Fenerbahce move. Marco Asensio currently earns around €14 million annually at PSG, but he’s reportedly willing to accept a significant pay cut to make his next step more about football than finances.

Serie A Beckons: AC Milan and Inter Ready to Battle

Among the clubs circling are Italian heavyweights AC Milan and Inter. Both teams see Marco Asensio as a valuable asset who brings experience, versatility, and a knack for scoring crucial goals. AC Milan, looking to bolster their midfield after a mixed 2024-25 campaign, have kept a watchful eye on the Spaniard. Inter, meanwhile, are fresh off another Scudetto run and are aiming to deepen their squad for a more intense Champions League push.

In Milan, Marco Asensio would find a familiar style of football and the chance to be part of a storied legacy. Reports suggest informal talks have already taken place, but no formal offers have been submitted yet.

Spain Calling? Villarreal Offers a Homecoming

Back in Spain, Villarreal has also entered the race. The Yellow Submarine, who continue to punch above their weight in both La Liga and Europe, are offering Marco Asensio a return to familiar terrain. While they can’t match the financial muscle of PSG or Fenerbahce, Villarreal hopes their footballing project and the opportunity to be a central figure will sway the player.

Unai Emery, who previously worked with Marco Asensio during the player’s stint in England, has reportedly given his blessing to the move. The relationship between the two could prove decisive, especially if Marco Asensio wants to rediscover his rhythm in a league that helped develop him.

What’s Next for PSG?

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For PSG, the decision to sell Marco Asensio aligns with a broader summer strategy. The club, under Luis Enrique, has already made bold moves to reshape the squad after falling to Chelsea in the Club World Cup final. Tensions flared after that match, culminating in a post-match brawl that involved Enrique himself.

As the Ligue 1 champions prepare to face Tottenham Hotspur in the Super Cup on August 14, they are also looking to balance their books and solidify a younger, more dynamic core. Selling Marco Asensio will open up funds and space for emerging talents, possibly paving the way for more signings before the end of the window.

Final Thoughts: A Defining Summer for Marco Asensio

Marco Asensio’s career has seen its fair share of highs and lows — from wonder goals at Real Madrid to injury setbacks and squad rotation. But at 29, he still has plenty of football left in him. His decision to reject Fenerbahce and hold out for a move within Europe’s elite leagues speaks volumes about his ambition.

Whether he ends up in Milan, Inter, or Villarreal, Marco Asensio will be hoping to reignite the spark that once made him one of Spain’s most promising midfielders. And for the clubs vying for his signature, the chance to sign a seasoned Champions League winner at a cut-rate price might be too good to pass up.

As the summer transfer window heats up, one thing is clear: Marco Asensio isn’t ready to fade quietly into the background. He’s playing the long game — and the next chapter of his career could be his most defining yet.