Real Madrid have a crucial few weeks ahead, as they look to finalise their squad for this season.
Despite starting the campaign with a win over Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup, there are still problems the club must address if they are to defend the Champions League and La Liga titles.
One of the problem areas is the sheer lack of depth in the team. That is perhaps why Real Madrid are keen on keeping hold of their existing players.
Dani Ceballos closes door on exit
One of the beneficiaries of Real Madrid’s lack of depth could be Dani Ceballos. The Spanish midfielder was earlier linked with a move away from Santiago Bernabeu, but it seems he might end up staying at the club.
In fact, AS reports Ceballos has closed the door on the possibility of a move away from the Bernabeu this summer.
The report adds that Ceballos has received multiple proposals from clubs across Europe. But the player has not even considered any of these deals, as he is firm about continuing at Real Madrid.
This comes despite the fact that Ceballos is not too optimistic about his inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans for the season.
Despite the retirement of Toni Kroos, Real Madrid have a loaded midfield unit, comprising the likes of Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Luka Modric, Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga.
What’s driving the sentiment?
The report reveals that Ceballos’ initial plan was to leave Real Madrid this summer. But a recent string of events had forced him to change his mind.
It all started with the retirement of Kroos, which was followed by Real Madrid’s creative shortcomings in the game against Atalanta.
It is clear that Los Blancos lack creativity in midfield without the presence of players like Ceballos and Modric in the team.
Moreover, Ancelotti had personally met Ceballos before the holidays and confirmed that he is part of the Italian’s plans for the season ahead.
That is perhaps why Ceballos has decided to continue another season at Real Madrid and fight for his place in the team. His current contract at the Bernabeu expires in the summer of 2027.