On-loan Arsenal midfielder Dani Ceballos has dismissed the possibility of extending his stay at the Emirates, saying he is determined to fight for a place at Real Madrid next season.
Ceballos joined Los Blancos on a six-year deal from Real Betis for 18million euros in the summer of 2017, however, he struggled to tie down a regular spot in his first two seasons at the Bernabeu.
The midfielder, who can play in a variety of positions, started just four games during his debut campaign in Madrid before earning a further 13 starting appearances in 2018-19.
With his chances set to be limited again this season, Ceballos took it upon himself to secure a loan move away from the Spanish giants.
It appears a warning from Spain boss Roberto Moreno played a big part in his decision to head out on-loan as he looks to ensure he is in the coach’s plans for Euro 2020.
So far, his move to north London for the 2019-20 campaign has proven to be a successful one and he is earning plenty of admirers in England.
He has been named in the starting XI on five occasions in the Premier League, featuring a further three times from the bench, and has offered plenty of creativity.
Reports have suggested that Arsenal are already considering the possibility of turning his loan switch into a permanent deal next summer.
However, Ceballos has dampened the Gunners’ hopes of acquiring his services long-term by suggesting he wants to be a success with Los Merengues.
Ceballos told Radio Marca: “I knew it was an important year, the coach has doubts and he who doesn’t play doesn’t go [to Euro 2020], so it was a good time to go on loan.
“I never thought about going permanently. My goal is to succeed at Real Madrid. I will fight to fulfil my dream.”
The 23-year-old has been named in Spain’s squad for the current international break and will be hoping to feature in the Euro 2020 Qualifiers against Norway and Sweden.