Real Madrid out-of-favour midfielder wanted by Saudi Arabian champions

According to a recent report from SPORT, Saudi Arabian side Al Ittihad have shown strong interest in signing Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos. 

The Spanish playmaker has struggled to earn a consistent role under Xabi Alonso, even after the departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric in recent times.

Instead of giving Ceballos a more prominent position, Alonso has chosen to adapt Arda Guler into the midfield, leaving the former Real Betis man pushed further down the pecking order. 

Saudi interest gaining strength

At 29 years old, Ceballos now finds himself mainly as a substitute, a situation that has opened the door for offers from abroad. 

Among them, Al Ittihad stand out with a proposal that could provide him with the most lucrative deal of his career.

The Saudi champions, coached by Laurent Blanc, are determined to strengthen their midfield options. 

Al Ittihad are interested in Dani Ceballos. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Despite being the winners of the previous season, they have endured a shaky start this year, including a semi-final defeat in the Super Cup against Al Nassr. 

Adding a player of Ceballos’ technical quality could help raise their competitive level, especially against rivals like Al Nassr, who continue to invest heavily in their squad.

Big names await Ceballos in Arabia

If Ceballos does consider a move, he would not be short of familiar faces and big personalities in the Al Ittihad dressing room. 

Former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema leads the squad, alongside established stars such as N’Golo Kante, and Barcelona’s Unai Hernandez. 

However, a transfer is far from certain. Ceballos remains tied to Real Madrid until 2027 and has historically resisted leaving the club, stating that he would only move to Real Betis in case of exit. 

Now, with Al Ittihad ready to place millions on the table, Ceballos faces a potential dilemma – stay loyal to Real Madrid and accept a secondary role, or embrace a new chapter in Saudi Arabia with financial rewards and guaranteed playing time.