Asensio likes Barca, wants to avoid war with Madrid

After seven seasons with Real Madrid, Marco Asensio announced on Friday that he would be leaving the club at the end of the season. As a free agent, a world of possibilities lie ahead of him, and at only 27-years-old, the winger is a very attractive prospect for many big clubs.
The big teams of the Premier League are interested, as well as PSG, according to 'Mundo Deportivo', but it seems that Asensio could have his eyes elsewhere. Barcelona are also in contention and the outlet reports that this could be where the Spaniard is looking for next season.
Asensio was close to signing for Barca back in 2015, but in the end it was Real Madrid who took him on from Mallorca. He is also represented by Jorge Mendes, a good friend of Barcelona president Joan Laporta, and agent to many of the other stars at the Camp Nou.
While both of these factors could make him a very good fit for Barcelona's squad, there are some sticking points. Barcelona are in a fair amount of financial trouble, and 'Mundo Deportivo' claim that if Asensio signed with them from Madrid, the 'Merengues' would take it as an offense. This could prompt a counter attack from them for one of Xavi's mainstays, which is something that Barca would want to steer clear of.
The other pitfall could be the arrival of Lionel Messi, who is reportedly contemplating a return to his former club. If that was to happen, Barcelona would find themselves well-stocked in the midfield and up front, and wouldn't have much use of Asensio.
The news of the departure was very recent, so it may be some time before the Spaniard has weighed up his options to decide his next season, wherever it may be.