Arsenal have announced the return of Dani Ceballos, with the Gunners and Real Madrid agreeing to another season-long loan deal.
Arsenal have made their third signing of the summer transfer window by securing the services of Dani Ceballos. The Real Madrid midfielder returns to the Emirates, following a successful 2019/20 campaign and has extended his loan spell until 2021, the club confirmed in an official statement.
Ceballos’s return is a massive win for the Arsenal hierarchy, with sporting director Edu, in particular, voicing his delight at securing his return from Real Madrid.
Welcome back, @DaniCeballos46! ? pic.twitter.com/a3idHXas5M
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) September 4, 2020
“We’re thrilled to have Dani back with us for the new season. We all know his qualities after an impressive 2019/2020 campaign, which ended with him playing a key role in our FA Cup success. We’re excited to add Dani to the list of quality players we are bringing in,” said the Brazilian.
Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager who played a vital role in Ceballos’s redemption during the second half of last season, is also excited about the return of his fellow country. His addition to the team could serve as a sigh of relief for the 38-year-old, who was running out of reliable options in central midfield.
“Dani was an integral part of our team last season and finished the season in excellent form. I love Dani’s passion and commitment and he’s a highly skilful player. We’re all delighted to welcome him back and we look forward to seeing him pick up where he left off,” Arteta said, in the official statement.
Don't worry, @DaniCeballos46 – it's still ready and waiting for you ?
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— Arsenal (@Arsenal) September 4, 2020
Ceballos becomes the second high profile transfer in London this week as only a few hours before the announcement, Chelsea had officiated the signing of Kai Havertz, putting an end to a month-long transfer saga.
As for Arsenal, there is still work left to do in this transfer market. With Matteo Guendouzi being linked with a move away from the Emirates after falling out with Arteta and the coaching staff, and with Lucas Torreira possibly on the exit trail as well, the club could still need a new midfielder.
But, one thing is for certain – the return of Ceballos could allow Arteta to stick with the interesting 3-4-3 setup with the double pivot of the Real Madrid loanee and Granit Xhaka orchestrating things in the middle of the park. The Spaniard’s newfound courage and determination are sure to help Arsenal fight for a top four finish in the upcoming campaign.
