Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement with Arsenal target and Real Betis starlet Dani Ceballos, dubbed the new Cesc Fabregas, according to Madrid-based daily Marca.
Ceballos earned plaudits from all quarters following his performances at the European Under-19 Championship held in Greece that the Spain Under-19 team went on to win earlier this summer.
He was a regular in the Real Betis first team last season and made 33 appearances, scoring five goals and providing as many assists to help them win the Segunda Division and thereby earn promotion to La Liga.
The 18-year-old has attracted attention from several European heavyweights including Premier League’s Arsenal and reigning Italian champions Juventus.
But Real Madrid have made an early move for the youngster and have been reported to have reached a verbal agreement with him.
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Ceballos needs the permission of Real Betis before his acquisition by Real Madrid can be finalised and the capital outfit are minded to loan the youngster back to the Benito Villamarin on a loan deal for a season or two as well as sending Marco Asensio on loan to sweeten the deal.
The midfielder’s existing contract lasts until the summer of 2016 and being 18, his transfer to Real Madrid could force Los Blancos to pay tribunal fees to Real Betis.
Ceballos joined the Seville-based outfit in 2011 and has progressed through the ranks to become a regular presence in the first team.
