Marco Asensio clarifies 'misinterpreted' Barcelona comments

Real Madrid winger Marco Asensio claims his comments about a potential move to bitter rivals Barcelona have been ‘misinterpreted.’

Asensio has struggled to get minutes in Real Madrid's side this season, and with the Spaniard in the final year of his contract that has seen his career arrive at a crossroads.

Reports in Spain claim Asensio’s agent Jorge Mendes has contacted Barcelona to explore the possibility of the 26-year-old joining the Catalan club in the summer, and the player himself did not deny it when he had the chance.

“Honestly, I don't know if they have called,” he told radio station COPE last month. “A lot of other clubs have been linked [with me] as well. But it's normal because in seven months, well, from January actually, I am free to speak to other teams.

“It's just that I have not thought about [joining Barca] or considered it. Honestly, right now, I can't give you an answer. I don't know,” he added.

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However, speaking from Spain’s World Cup base, Asensio has attempted to distance himself from those comments, as well as expressing his desire to extend his stay at Madrid.

Asked about his previous comments on Barcelona, Asensio said: "They were interpreted in many ways. I just said that I was comfortable at Real Madrid.

“There is talk that I am changing Real Madrid's mind, but I have always tried to give the best that I have. The one who decides, too, is the club, it does not only depend on me.

“After the World Cup, we'll both make a decision. What if I want to renew? Hopefully it can happen and I'll be very happy at Real Madrid for many years. Hopefully everything will be given to stay for 10 more years"