LaLiga

Report: Atletico Madrid keen on signing Real Madrid star on a free transfer

Atletico Madrid have reportedly set their sights on a Real Madrid player whose contract with the crosstown rivals runs out at the end of the season.

March 27, 2023 03:37PM EDT

**© Alex Caparros/Getty Images**Diego Simeone.

Nothing has gone according to plan for Atletico Madrid this season. After years of continuous growth, the current campaign is probably the most disappointing one in Diego Simeone’s tenure.

Not only did the Colchoneros fail to get through the UEFA Champions League group stage – not even dropping to the Europa League -they have also struggled in LaLiga as they’re 13 points behind leaders FC Barcelona.

Additionally, Atleti lost to city rivalsReal Madrid in the Copa del Rey. That’s why the club has reportedly started to think about the summer transfer window, in which they plan to make a free move that would infuriate the neighbors.

Report: Atletico Madrid interested inDani Ceballos of Real Madrid

According to Marca, Atletico Madrid are keeping tabs on Dani Ceballos, who is in the final months of his contract with Real Madrid. At 26, the Spain international is in control of his own destiny after years of waiting for his chance at the Bernabeu.

Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images

Ceballos hasn’t hadmuch playing time with Los Blancos since joining the team in 2017. In fact, he was sent on loan to Arsenal between 2019 and 2021. Whether he’s in Real Madrid’s plans for the future remains to be seen, but time is running out and Ceballos could end up playing for the crosstown rivals next season.

Martín O’donnell

Martin O'Donnell is a bilingual sports writer fluent in English and Spanish, currently serving as the Editor of Bolavip. He began his journey with the website in February 2021, making a name for himself through comprehensive coverage of soccer, NFL, and NBA, with a specialty in real-time reporting of major events such as the World Cup, UEFA Champions League finals, and the Super Bowl. In June 2024, Martin took on the role of Subeditor, where he excelled in overseeing the publication of stories, assisting staff writers, and ensuring content quality. His prior experience includes managing social media for CONMEBOL Libertadores and Sudamericana in English and Spanish, as well as reporting on Brazilian football for Sambafoot. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture breaking news, Martin has consistently been a valuable asset to the Bolavip team, especially during crucial sports seasons involving trades, playoffs, and finals. Now, as the Editor, Martin brings his extensive experience and keen editorial sense to lead Bolavip’s team, driving the website's growth and ensuring it remains a top source for sports news and analysis.