DANI CEBALLOS will refuse a return to Real Madrid while Zinedine Zidane is manager, according to reports.
The midfielder has become a hit with Arsenal fans since he joined on loan in the summer and could be closer to making the switch permanent.
Dani Ceballos could refuse a return to Real Madrid while Zinedine Zidane is still managerCredit: Getty – Contributor
The 23-year-old reportedly asked for the original loan deal not to include an option to buy as he wanted to return to the Spanish giants.
But his poor relationship with Zidane means he will opt against a move back to the Bernabeu, according to Spanish outlet AS.
Ceballos reportedly held talks to discuss his Real departure with Los Blancos president Floretino Perez last month.
He is alleged to have asked Perez to find an arrangement with the Gunners, with £31million reportedly enough to convince Los Blancos to sell.
El Desmarque also suggested Ceballos asked Perez to meet with Arsenal in January to try and sort out a deal.
Ceballos last month insisted he is happy in London, and he revealed he is “where he wants to be”.
And this latest news will come as a boost to Arsenal who are keen on making Ceballos’ move permanent.
The ex-Real Betis midfielder has made 17 appearances and scored two goals in all competitions since moving to the Emirates.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk