Real Madrid has now completed most of its business during the transfer window, with two significant departures in the form of Lucas Vazquez and Luka Modric, who were not given new contracts, and four new arrivals totaling €167.5 million. Some players still have questionable futures at the Santiago Bernabeu, though.
One such player is Dani Ceballos, who seems to be caught between fulfilling his rotating role for Real Madrid and leaving the team. Ceballos hints at a possible exit this summer as well, but more recent sources indicate that Xabi Alonso wants to keep Ceballos since he doesn’t have many choices in central midfield, especially for a player like him.
According to reports, Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Ittihad is prepared to make a last-minute bid during the transfer season in an attempt to entice Ceballos away from La Liga. Sport explains that the 29-year-old is highly sought after by Al-Ittihad, where former colleague Karim Benzema resides, who believes he may seize the chance to sign one last major contract. Ceballos is reportedly hesitant to leave Real Madrid, though.
Real Madrid out-of-favour midfielder wanted by Al-Ittihad
Despite winning the previous season, they have had a rough start to the current campaign, which includes losing to Al Nassr in the Super Cup semi-final. Their level of competition might be improved by adding a player of Ceballos’ technical skill, particularly when facing competitors like Al Nassr, who keep making significant squad investments.
Ceballos would have no shortage of well-known names and influential figures in the Al Ittihad locker room if he were to contemplate a move. Along with well-known players like N’Golo Kante and Barcelona’s Unai Hernandez, the team is led by former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.
A move is far from guaranteed, though. Ceballos has a 2027 contract with Real Madrid and has always opposed leaving the team, saying he would only join Real Betis if he had to.
Now that Al Ittihad is willing to spend millions, Ceballos may have to choose between accepting a supporting position and remaining faithful to Real Madrid or starting again in Saudi Arabia with assured playing time and financial benefits.
