Tottenham could open talks with Real Madrid for unwanted midfielder Dani Ceballos as Mauricio Pochettino looks for quality squad additions.
Real Madrid look pretty serious with their transfer plans this summer. After a disappointing season on all fronts, the La Liga giants are set to move on many players. According to Spanish publication Eldesmarque, Tottenham might be interested in one of their midfielders, namely the forgotten Dani Ceballos and would want to add him to their squad this summer window.
Madrid went out of all possible competitions this season amid plenty of problems on and off the field for the club. There were three managerial changes, as well as all players underperformed. Madrid started correcting their errors with the re-appointment of former manager Zinedine Zidane, who is expected to deem many current stars as surplus.
Madrid’s rebuilding has seen them already sign Luka Jovic from Eintracht Frankfurt, while the likes of Isco, Keylor Navas and Gareth Bale are all heavily tipped to leave the La Liga giants this summer. Madrid’s exodus might become beneficial for the likes of many top European and English clubs, with Tottenham the latest to show an interest in one of their stars, Dani Ceballos.
Ceballos joined two summers ago from Real Betis and was expected to add some value in the Madrid squad that romped to three consecutive Champions League titles. Instead, in his first season, he was a bit part player under Zidane, while this season he made 34 appearances in all competitions.
He was becoming a regular under Julen Lopetegui, but since Santiago Solari took over his chances diminished. Under Zidane’s latest tenure, he has been overlooked for most parts and is not expected to form a part of the Frenchman’s squad next summer. Tottenham might be making an offer for the outcast, but how much will he cost the North London side?
The report suggests Tottenham might be able to offer around €40-50 million for the Spaniard. That amount of money for a player seemingly out of favour at Madrid seems exorbitant, given Spurs’ inactivity in the last two transfer windows. Mauricio Pochettino, however, might see value in the player and seems like he could be offered a role at the North London club.
Tottenham have not adequately replaced Mousa Dembele who departed last January and might feel Ceballos’ addition might fulfil their midfield quota. Additionally, There is the off chance Christian Eriksen might leave Spurs in favour of Real Madrid. Pochettino could look to include Ceballos as part of any deal for the Danish midfielder.
Apart from Ceballos, Tottenham are expected to be active in this summer window to strengthen the squad for next season. Spurs bowed out of their challenge for the Premier League title, although they have made it to the Champions League Final. Irrespective of their result against Liverpool, Pochettino is set to receive a considerable amount for transfers, as the likes of Gareth Bale and others are linked.
As far as Ceballos, will he prove to be a smart addition for Spurs? He could be. Given his track record in La Liga, the midfielder was a good performer with Betis. Due to plenty of options available at Madrid, he has always been considered a squad player rather than a first team starter. This situation could change with a move to Spurs.
