This archive report was first published on 25 July 2019.
Arsenal has completed a season-long loan deal for Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos, adding depth to Unai Emery's options in the middle of the park.
Ceballos, who made 13 La Liga starts for Real Madrid last season, will wear the famous No.8 shirt previously worn by Samir Nasri, Mikel Arteta, and Aaron Ramsey.
The 22-year-old Spanish midfielder has spent the past few days undergoing routine medical checks and laying final touches on his switch to the North London outfit.
His deal with Arsenal has no purchase option, but Ceballos' arrival is expected to bolster the team's squad depth ahead of the new season.
Unai Emery, Arsenal's manager, has previously spoken highly of Ceballos, hinting during the preseason of his desire to land the services of the midfielder.
Emery has praised Ceballos, saying, "Ceballos is a very good player. I know him from Betis at the beginning and Real Madrid." He added, "He played very well in the Under-21s, his national team won the competition. He is one eight and 10 player."
Ceballos began his career with Sevilla's youth system in 2004 and went on to play for his hometown club, CD Utrera, before signing a professional contract with Real Betis in 2014. He joined Real Madrid in 2017 in a six-year deal.
Emery's role in bringing Ceballos to Arsenal has been instrumental, and the midfielder's arrival is expected to strengthen the team's midfield.
