Midfielder thinks his game will develop better there

Espanyol worked hard to secure a loan deal for Marco Asensio. The attacking midfielder had 20 or so offers on the table from clubs all over the world, but Real Madrid eventually loaned him out to the Catalan side, where he has a guaranteed place in the starting XI.

The loan deal is only for one season, but the Spain under-21 international wants to extend his stint at Cornellà for another year, given how well he is doing at Espanyol and his likely limited chances at the Santiago Bernabéu due to fierce competition for places.

Asensio has adapted wonderfully to top-flight football. He has been first-choice since his arrival at Cornellà, both under former boss Sergio González and now Constantin Galca. One of Spain's most promising young players has found his place on the blue and white side of Barcelona, where he is a firm fans' favourite.

The under-21 international has made 18 La Liga appearances - starting 17 - plus another three in the Spanish Cup, starting them all. He is one of few players with a guaranteed place in the team; although he has yet to score for the club, his attacking vision, movement between the lines, ability to lose his marker, and impressive number of assists can really change a game. On top of that, he has gelled really well with the rest of the dressing room.