According to Marca, Real Madrid have followed up on their league win by handing another blow to bitter rivals Barcelona. After beating them to La Liga, Los Blancos have finished ahead of the Blaugrana in the race to sign Dani Ceballos.
The 20-year-old is a very promising Spanish midfielder who excelled last season with Real Betis and during the summer with Spain in Euro U-21.
The Spanish publication report that a six-year deal has already been agreed upon, with only formalities and a medical remaining. An announcement is expected on Monday.
The Champions League holders will reportedly fork out €18m for Ceballos, going two millions above the player’s €15m release clause. The midfielder is scheduled to fly on July 20 to San Francisco to join Zidane’s side for the pre-season.
€18m for Dani Ceballos, €24m for Theo Hernández. If that doesn't scream shrewd business, I don't know what will. Building the future.
— Xav Salazar (@XavsFutbol) July 8, 2017
One big loser from this deal is James Rodriguez. This signing is the final nail in the coffin for the Colombian’s Bernabeu career, but an exit was always imminent. Two other players who could leave as a result, whether on loan or permanently, are Lucas Vazquez and Mateo Kovacic.
This is also a huge blow for Barcelona. The Catalan giants were interested in Ceballos only to be snubbed for Les Merengues. This is another significant failure in the transfer market as they also look set to miss out on Verratti and Bellerin.
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