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Manchester United are expecting a busy summer with INEOS guiding the club through their first transfer window in charge of the sporting structure.
Erik ten Hag’s squad is in need of major surgery and plenty of incomings and outgoings are predicted at Old Trafford.
However, with FFP regulations tighter than ever coupled with United’s reckless spending over the last decade, INEOS will have to look for deals that make economical sense in the market.
One player that looks likely to be available in the summer who could represent decent value is Real Madrid star, Dani Ceballos.
As reported by Spanish media, Ceballos is open to a move in the window after becoming disillusioned with life at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 27-year-old hasn’t featured as much as he’d like this season, finding himself out-of-favour in Carlo Ancelotti’s star-studded midfield.
Given the quality at Ancelotti’s disposal one could be forgiven for thinking Ceballos just doesn’t meet the standards required to play for Madrid.
However, his season has been interrupted by a couple of frustrating injuries, one of which cost him his pre-season, and the Spaniard ultimately hasn’t recovered.
Ceballos chalked up ample game time last season and looked as though he was going to be a key part of Ancelotti’s side one more, this.
Lack of minutes this year has diminished his market value, which now stands at a reported €8 million, which could work in United’s favour should they decide to take a punt on the player.
However, a punt it would be given Ceballos up-and-down spell in his previous stint in the Premier League with Arsenal, which ultimately didn’t work out as planned.
But, a Liga title and Champions League triumph in 2012/22 means he would come back to England with valuable experience and a point to prove.
Ceballos is also now a fully fledged Spanish international with 13 caps to his name for La Roja.
United have been devoid of any structure in the middle of the park throughout a disappointing campaign and Ceballos would certainly add extra quality to the first team squad.
Furthermore, United are likely to lose at least one of the players in their engine room in the summer with Christian Eriksen, Casemiro and Scott McTominay’s futures looking less than secure.
Whilst he might not have the quality to take United to the next level, Ceballos does represent a decent option to fill in for 15-20 games a season.
Furthermore, Madrid would probably be happy to cash in on an unhappy body in the summer, particularly given the embarrassment of riches they have in middle of the park.
INEOS will naturally have their eye on a statement signing or two in their first transfer window at the club but would be wise to keep an eye on the Ceballos situation, who could prove to be a really shrewd piece of business for the new minority owners.
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