According to the latest reports from the Sun, West Ham United are eyeing a deal for Real Madrid’s outcast Dani Ceballos. The 22-year-old could exit the club in the summer as Ral Madrid are preparing for an overhaul and Zidane wants a side that can challenge Barcelona in the La Liga.
The Hammers are expected to make a bid of £18m which could be enough to lure the midfielder. However, Real Madrid would prefer to send the midfielder on loan, but the Hammer are keen on getting the player on a permanent deal. Ceballos has started just 12 games for his side this season, and it is quite understandable given the fact that the Galacticos have the likes of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos in midfield.
Why West Ham need a midfielder?
The East London club spent major money in the summer of 2018, but they haven’t been able to solve their midfield issue. They signed Jack Wilshere and Carlos Sanchez to support the likes of Pedro Obiang and Mark Noble. Club captain Noble is 31, and he seems past his prime. However, Wilshere and Sanchez have been on the treatment table for most of the season.
The emergence of Declan Rice who is predominantly a central defender has made Pellegrini’s job easier as the Irish.. oops Englishman has played a pivotal role as a defensive midfielder. However, his performances haven’t gone unnoticed, and the versatile midfielder is attracting plenty of interest from heavyweight clubs. So the Hammers might have to sell him in the summer.
Pellegrini probably realises that he cannot rely on Noble, Wilshere and Sanchez for the next season, so he needs to add options there.
What will Ceballos bring to the table?
On the technical front, the Spaniard is extremely strong as he showcases quick feet and agility which helps him wriggle out of tight spaces. His dribbling skills are also worth mentioning. However, he would need to develop the physical side of his game if he wants to thrive as a midfielder in the Premier League. His skills will allow him to draw a lot of fouls, but there will be occasions where he could get shrugged off the ball.
Should Pellegrini go for him?
Given their midfield issue, Ceballos can be a top addition, and he can even be a significant influencer in the attacking third if he is given a role as the no. 10. At 22, he is also a six-time Spanish international, and for £18m he looks like a top addition to us.
