Real Madrid and Olympique agree on Ceballos's departure, imminent announcement

Real Madrid started this week with doubts about the composition of its midfield, especially due to Xabi Alonso's requests. The Tolosa coach has requested, since the end of the Club World Cup, the addition of a creative midfielder with a defensive profile. Far from adding reinforcements, the white club is reportedly about to part ways with another player.

This was reportedly confirmed by Santi Aouna through its social media: Olympique de Marseille's approach to Dani Ceballos has had the desired effect according to the French journalist. "Agreement reached" between both entities, the reporter from the neighboring country warns, in a transfer whose final details "will be solved with the player".

Indeed, one of the main doubts regarding this departure of Dani Ceballos lay in the formula used. Although Real Madrid's current '19' wanted to leave on a permanent transfer, most of the information considered on the matter indicates that he will leave the white club on loan with an obligation to buy.

This agreement between the entity presided over by Florentino Pérez and the Marseille squad means the departure of a player who was important for Xabi Alonso. Indeed, the Basque coach has made it clear that "I count on everyone", although it is true that Dani Ceballos was destined to be a substitute.

It's about to become official

The Spanish footballer has reportedly expressed his desire to take on a bigger role in the white team's sporting discipline. Since he did not see that request accepted, he has left multiple messages and approaches toward Real Betis, an operation frustrated by the financial demands imposed from the Valdebebas offices. Real Madrid has always requested 15 million euros for the player.

Few clubs were willing to bet on signing Dani Ceballos, especially when there are still two years left on his contract with Real Madrid. The only plausible way to secure his services is the one Olympique de Marseille has reportedly negotiated with the white board of directors during the last days of the current summer transfer window.

Dani Ceballos's departure widens the existing gap in Madrid's midfield. Toni Kroos's retirement, as well as Luka Modric's move to AC Milan, has taken away significant creative potential from the white first team. This loss means fewer players to help Arda Güler in playmaking, one of the team's pending issues.

Real Madrid is now working to give Xabi Alonso the depth he needs in midfield. Hence the likely promotion of Thiago Pitarch to the first team, leaving Real Madrid Castilla for good... The hypothetical loan of Kobbie Mainoo from Manchester United.