REAL MADRID star Dani Ceballos could make a controversial switch to Atletico this summer, according to reports.
The former Arsenal loanee, 27, signed a new four-year contract at the Bernabeu last year.
He has struggled for game time this season, however, often finding himself stuck behind the likes of Jude Bellingham, Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Aurelien Tchouameni, Fede Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga.
According to Spanish radio station Cadena Ser, Atletico are interested in signing Ceballos.
Real Madrid fans would likely be unimpressed with their midfielder making the move to local rivals.
But such a transfer is not unprecedented, with Atletico’s current squad boasting the likes of Marcos Llorente and Alvaro Morata – former Real stars.
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Ceballos moved to Madrid from Real Betis in 2017.
He subsequently spent two years on loan at Arsenal between 2019 and 2021, playing 77 times for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Upon his return to the Spanish capital he managed to carve out a role for himself, and even won his second Champions League medal in 2022.
But this season he has so far been limited to 14 LaLiga appearances, with just one start.
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In addition to Atletico, Ceballos is likely to receive further interest.
Former club Betis have been linked with bringing Ceballos back to Andalusia.
Their financial woes, however, make a reunion unlikely.
Ceballos could yet make a return to the Premier League, with Aston Villa boss Unai Emery, the man that initially brought him to Arsenal, still an admirer.
Ceballos’ Arsenal stint
Midfielder spent two seasons with the Gunners
2019-20 season:
37 appearances
Two goals
Two assists
Notable for: Unai Emery being sacked on November 29, and replaced by Mikel Arteta the following month. Winning the FA Cup, and starting the final against Chelsea.
2020-21 season:
40 appearances
Zero goals
Three assists
Notable for: Losing his earlier prominence, starting just 17 Premier League games. Slumping to eighth in Arteta’s first season in charge.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
