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Arsenal dealt blow as loanee Dani Ceballos 'prefers alternative transfer'


Arsenal could be edged out of a permanent deal for Dani Ceballos as they are not thought to be the midfielder’s first choice destination.

The Real Madrid star has impressed on loan with the Gunners this season, and Mikel Arteta is hopeful of keeping him at the club long-term.

Ceballos has made 24 appearances for Arsenal so far this season, but does not seemingly have a future in Madrid, leaving the door open for a permanent switch.

However despite Arsenal’s interest, Estadio Deportivo report that Ceballos would rather return to former club Real Betis.

The 23-year-old spent three seasons with Betis from 2014-17 before moving to Madrid.

Ceballos reportedly favours a move back to Real Betis
Ceballos reportedly favours a move back to Real Betis

Ceballos is aware he needs to be playing regular first-team football if he is to stand any chance of playing a part in Spain’s Euro 2021 squad next summer.

At Betis he would be one of the first names on the team sheet – something neither Arsenal nor Madrid are able to promise.

Arteta wants to retain Ceballos’ services, but is also aware that he may be operating on a strict budget if Arsenal fail to secure European qualification, which could affect his summer spending.

The midfielder has showed promising signs of his talent on loan
The midfielder has showed promising signs of his talent on loan

Arsenal have been tracking other options, including Atletico Madrid star Thomas Partey, and in a strange twist could even move for a Betis player.

Frenchman Nabil Fekir has been linked with a switch to the Emirates just two years after a transfer to Liverpool collapsed.

The Gunners are already said to have opened talks with Fekir’s representatives over a potential switch, and believes they can land the 26-year-old for around £30million.

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Meanwhile BT Sport pundit Rio Ferdinand has told Arsenal they must strengthen elsewhere if they are to achieve success.

Speaking on an Instagram Q&A, he said: “Arsenal need centre-halves. They need centre-halves who can defend and play as well.

“I don’t see that now. They have many good footballers but you need a blend.

“Arsenal is a fantastic club, what a club. But they need to get it right in other areas of the pitch.”





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