DANI CEBALLOS will refuse a return to Real Madrid while Zinedine Zidane is manager, according to reports.
The midfielder – currently on loan at Arsenal – has become a hit with Gunners fans since he signed in the summer and could be closer to making the switch permanent.
The 23-year-old reportedly asked for the original loan deal not to include an option to buy as he wanted to return to the Spanish giants.
But his bad relationship with Zidane means he will opt against a move back to the Bernabeu, according to Spanish outlet AS.
Ceballos reportedly held talks to discuss his Real departure with Los Blancos president Floretino Perez last month.
He is alleged to have asked Perez to find an arrangement with the Gunners, with 31million reportedly enough to convince Los Blancos to sell.
El Desmarque also suggested Ceballos asked Perez to meet with Arsenalin January to try and sort out a deal.
Ceballos hinted last month insisted he is happy in London, and he revealed he is “where he wants to be”.
And this latest news will come as a boost to Arsenal who are keen on making Ceballos’ move permanent.
The ex-Real Betis midfielder has made 17 appearances and scored two goals in all competitions since moving to the Emirates.
