Dani Ceballos emerged as a key player under Ancelotti, but financial issues and limited game time may lead to his departure.
Real Madrid are burning the midnight oil to renew the contracts of key players before they expire in June. So far, veterans Luka Modric and Toni Kroos have put pen to paper on new deals. There is optimism that more will follow suit.
Marco Asensio seems closer than ever to staying on, while fan favourite Nacho Fernandez also looks set to continue his legacy at the Bernabeu. However, according to Marca, one player heading for the exit is Dani Ceballos.
The midfield maestro has come into his own in the second half of the season, emerging as Carlo Ancelotti’s go-to guy to give Modric a breather. However, money troubles and a lack of game time mean Los Blancos could lose Ceballos.
Real Madrid tabled their first offer to extend Ceballos’ deal three weeks ago, but it seems his camp expected far more. Doors now appear open for a summer move.
Ceballos has apparently already begun talks with childhood club Real Betis. There is also interest from Italy, while city rivals Atletico Madrid are keeping close tabs on the situation.
Potential Exit Dani Ceballos Adds to Renewal Headaches
Ceballos’ renewal is now looking increasingly unlikely. The 26-year-old has slowly drifted from the club and chances of him staying seem slim.
He has featured 26 times for Real Madrid this term, chipping in with three assists, and averages one key pass and over five defensive actions per game.
Ceballos is expected to start Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Manchester City on the bench.
However, Ancelotti could call on the midfield dynamo if needing to change the flow of the game. The future of the silky Spaniard remains unclear, but one thing looks certain – his time at Real Madrid appears to be coming to an end.
