This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…
Arsenal remain in talks with Real Madrid over a permanent deal to sign Dani Ceballos but the two clubs remain apart on their valuations of the midfielder, per El Desmarque.
What’s the word?
The Gunners secured a loan deal for the Spanish midfielder in the summer transfer window but it does not include an option to buy him at the end of the season.
Nevertheless, he has thus far made 12 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring once and registering two assists.
And Unai Emery’s men are said to be keen on signing him on a permanent basis for €30m (£25.8m), though Real would prefer to receive closer to €35m (£30.1m).
Real president Florentino Perez is reportedly unwilling to budge on his valuation and he would like to retain Ceballos’ services, though the player is willing to make the move.
Bridge the gap
Arsenal need to start looking down the back of the sofa to see if they can find the spare change needed.
Ceballos has been an impressive part of Emery’s starting XI thus far this season and has played in every single game in every competition.
A silky midfielder with an eye for a pass, he has averaged one key pass per game, 1.2 dribbles and a pass completion rate of 89.2% in the Premier League, per WhoScored.
He could be the fulcrum of the team if his move is made permanent.
For the sake of under £5m, Arsenal need to give in to Real’s demands and make Ceballos their next permanent signing; they’ll surely regret it if they don’t.