Newcastle United are interested in signing former Arsenal midfielder Dani Ceballos.
Ceballos spent two seasons on loan at the north London side between 2019 and 2021, before returning to parent club Real Madrid, where he has remained ever since.
Indeed, the 27-year-old only signed new terms with Los Blancos back in June, penning an extension that will take him through to 2027.
Yet it appears he is already on the cusp of leaving.
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Ceballos has been restricted to just 73 minutes across four games since returning from injury in September, and according to reports in Spain, as per Team Talk, Newcastle has been alerted to the situation.
Indeed, the Magpies’ interest has been triggered by uncertainty over Sandro Tonali due to the betting allegations against the midfielder.
With Tonali facing a potential ban, Newcastle are said to be open to offering €20million (£17million) to secure Ceballos' services in the new year. Aston Villa are also said to be interested.
Tonali came off the bench to a warm reception as Newcastle dismantled Crystal Palace 4-0 in the Premier League at St James' Park on Saturday.
After the game Newcastle boss Howe said: "I think the hardest part is ahead regardless of what happens.
"Immediately, you get a lot of attention and people are talking about the situation. He's had the love of the supporters today, but that's difficult to maintain over a long period of time. Who knows what's ahead?
"I just think it's great for him to know he's got the support, not just of the senior management at the football club and the manager, but also the support of the supporters and they're the most important people."
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Topics: Football, Newcastle United, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Transfers
Chris Byfield