Real Madrid star linked with a January exit as 2 clubs plot transfer swoop: Reports
Dani Ceballos could leave Real Madrid in January amid interest from AC Milan and Real Betis, according to journalist Ekrem Konur. The 28-year-old was close to an exit from the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, but a move failed to materialize.
Ceballos joined Los Blancos from Real Betis in 2017 as one of the emerging talents in world football. However, he failed to impress and the La Liga champions eventually sent him on loan to Arsenal in 2019.
The Spaniard has a mixed two-season stay at the Emirates before returning to Real Madrid in 2021. He has since been in and out of the starting XI, struggling with injuries and form. The presence of some of the best midfielders in the world at Los Blancos hasn't helped his case either.
Betis have been attentive to their former player's situation for a while and wanted him back this summer. The Andalusian club reportedly offered to buy 50% of the player's rights but their proposal wasn't up to the La Liga champions' expectations. Monaco also arrived with a late loan move for the Spaniard but were turned down by Real Madrid.
Ceballos has struggled for game time with Los Blancos this season as well, registering just three appearances, two of which were from off the bench. To make matters worse, he is currently sidelined with an ankle sprain.
Despite Toni Kroos' retirement, the La Liga champions remain well covered in midfield and can afford to let the Spaniard go. His former club are already plotting to prise him away at the turn of the year but now faces competition from AC Milan for the player.
Dani Ceballos could leave Real Madrid in January
Dani Ceballos is in his prime and cannot afford to warm the bench at Real Madrid anymore. He is apparently open to a return to the Estadio Benito Villamarin. However, the chance to join AC Milan will also be an enticing prospect for the Spaniard.
The Serie A giants could offer him top-level football as well as regular European action. A move to San Siro could represent the opportunity to rejuvenate his stalling career.
Los Blancos are fighting on multiple fronts this season, and would ideally prefer to keep their squad intact through the winter. However, the La Liga giants could be willing to let Ceballos leave if they receive a suitable proposal.
AC Milan have a cordial relationship with Real Madrid and could convince them to part ways with the player at the turn of the year.