Arsenal star reveals ‘ideal’ team for next season, as departure looks likely

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Dani Ceballos has practically confirmed he will not be staying at Arsenal when his loan from Real Madrid expires at the end of the season.

The Spanish midfielder joined the Gunners on a season-long loan in the summer, but has struggled to make too much of an impact, registering 10 Premier League starts, no goals and two assists.

Ceballos had been a man in demand in the past, attracting the likes of Liverpool, but Arsenal appear to have decided against pursuing a permanent deal or even another loan for the 23-year-old.

And the midfielder himself has now revealed that he is eager to be a success when he returns to Real Madrid, who signed him in 2017 after he impressed in the Under-21 European Championships.

“I am a Real Madrid player… and any player in the world would like to play for Real Madrid,” he told TVE in Spain (via the Mirror).

“I have a contract with them for three more years and they are the ideal team to succeed.

“I am happy and I have a contract with Real Madrid.

“I am 23 years old. Now I feel much more a player and I am prepared for any challenge that comes my way.”

Ceballos may find a lack of space back at Madrid, though, and so may move on in another loan – but it would more likely be to former club Real Betis than Arsenal, who did not insert an option to buy into their original loan deal.

Other reports have suggested that Juventus are willing to meet Madrid’s asking price to sign Ceballos on a permanent basis.