Real Madrid's plan for Dani Ceballos could still see midfielder return to Arsenal

Posted Thursday, August 13, 2020 by Dailystar.co.uk

Real Madrid are looking to bring Arsenal loanee Dani Ceballos back to the Bernabeu for test in pre-season – but it could still see the midfielder remain with the Gunners

Real Madrid have a plan for Arsenal loanee Dani Ceballos – but it could still see the midfielder return to north London.

The Spaniard has impressed Gunners fans in his loan season at the Emirates, grabbing two goals and two assists form midfield in 37 games.

It saw the 24-year-old help his side to the FA Cup while helping Mikel Arteta’s side recover for a eighth-place Premier League finish.

They face the prospect of losing Ceballos, though, as the La Liga giants are looking for a £23m fee to make the move permanent.

But Spanish outlet AS have reported that Madrid’s latest ploy could still see the midfielder stay at Arsenal.

Real Madrid have a plan for Dani Ceballos that could still see the midfielder return to Arsenal (Image: 2020 The Arsenal Football Club Plc)

The Bernabeu side have decided to bring the 24-year-old back and test him in pre-season before making a decision.

A lot of this comes down to Zinedine Zidane’s Champions League round-of-16 defeat to Manchester City.

But it could still see Madrid send him out on loan if conditions are met with Arsenal, who are seen as the most interested club after weeks of negotiations.

Real Madrid's plan for Dani Ceballos could still see midfielder return to Arsenal
The midfielder is set to be called back to the Bernabeu for pre-season tests (Image: 2019 Quality Sport Images)

Ceballos’ relationship with Arteta is also seen as a factor, with the Spanish manager speaking out on the midfielder’s performances last month.

"Both clubs have been in communication. I really like Dani,” the Arsenal boss said.

"He wasn't available when I joined because he had a difficult injury. He is understanding what we are trying to do really, really nicely.

Real Madrid's plan for Dani Ceballos could still see midfielder return to Arsenal
But he could still head back to north London over his relationship with Mikel Arteta and the fact talks have been going on for weeks (Image: 2020 The Arsenal Football Club Plc)

"He has a big personality to play, take the ball in any area of the field and give the continuity that we need as a team to control the game.

"As well without the ball, the running he is putting in, the tackles and interceptions, his desire to win the ball back and help the team is improved so much.

"He looks a really good player at the moment."

But Gunners fans were left worried this week as Ceballos was snapped wearing a Real Betis shirt on social media.