Officially on loan to Arsenal, Spain international Dani Ceballos has reportedly lodged an official notice to Real Madrid that he wants his stay at Emirates on a permanent basis. Reportedly, Ceballos made the decision following dialogue with Real president Florentino Perez.
In that meeting, which happened during the international break, the Spanish playmaker was supposedly informed that Real manager Zinedine Zidane has no plans for him in the club. As a result, Ceballos made the request that his parent team initiates talks that would formalize a move with the Gunners, Football Espana reported.
The report added that Ceballos transferring out did not come as a complete surprise since the midfielder is said to have been out favor from Real's French chief.
"Ceballos is said to have a strained relationship with Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane and the Frenchman's position by next summer could be key for the future of the midfielder," the report indicated.
The transfer, however, will cost the Gunners as a purchase will likely see Real demanding a price that is three times the value of Ceballos' transfer value from Real Betis.
According to Metro, since Zidane has omitted the Spaniard from Real's long-term game plan, the club will be happy to send him to interested parties. But the taker will have to pay up no less than £34 million.
In making the request for a move out of Real, Ceballos has indicated that a deal with Arsenal should be the top priority. It's unclear though if negotiations will be started in time for a January transfer and if the Gunners are willing to meet the playmaker's high price tag.
It appears, however, that Ceballos is now a prized component in the Arsenal with team boss Unai Emery fielding him in 12 appearances so far since the club on loan. This is in stark contrast with Zidane, who apparently has opted to overlook the skills of the 23-year-old footballer.
"Ceballos has become an important part of Arsenal's midfield already this season, and the gunners are keen to keep hold of the highly-rated playmaker," the Daily Mail reported.
In a recent interview, the Spaniard admitted that while he still wants to play with Real eventually, he is happy that in Arsenal, he gets "to go out, play and enjoy football."
Likewise, Ceballos shared that he appreciates the trust given to him by Emery and that he intends to prove the confidence was all worth it.
"I can only thank them for the confidence that the coach and fans have placed in me, who have already made me a song. I am very happy there and I hope to continue for a long time," Ceballos said.
