Dani Ceballos is Atlético Madrid’s priority number one target to reinforce the midfield following Augusto Fernández’s long-term knee injury and with the 35-year-old Tiago nearing the end of his career.

Poyet blocked deal last summer

Spain under-21 international Ceballos was close to signing for Diego Simeone during the summer but Betis boss Gus Poyet vetoed the deal. With Atlético prevented from making signings in the January window due to a Fifa transfer ban for signing underage players in violation of transfer rules.

Ceballos sparingly used at Betis

During negotiations last summer Atlético were close to sealing the signature of the highly rated 20-year-old for a fee in the region of nine million euros but Poyet blocked the move, stating Ceballos “is an important player for me.” However, so far this season the Betis coach has only handed Ceballos 202 minutes of action.

Ceballos, a product of the Betis academy, did not push for the move and has stated that he will only leave Betis if any deal is beneficial for both parties and he does not want to cause any bad blood at the club where he learned his trade.

Koke and Saúl comparison

Simeone believes Ceballos could follow a similar trajectory to Koke and Saúl, two pearls of the Calderón youth system who are now first team regulars. Ceballos can dictate play, operate in a number 10 role or as a central midfielder and is comfortable on the wings.