Real Madrid Transfer News: Dani Ceballos Comments, Aymeric Laporte Rumours

Dani Ceballos has spoken out about his £14.7 million transfer from Real Betis to Real Madrid, as he turned his back on a potential move to Barcelona.

According to Hamish Mackay of the Mirror, the 20-year-old said he had no doubts about moving to Los Blancos after he became aware of their interest.

Ceballos said: "I knew I wanted to play for Real Madrid and that was my aim. I am at the best club in the world and proud to wear this jersey."

He added: 

"There was no doubt in my mind. This is where I wanted to be. The president contacted me and we got talking. There was nowhere other than Real Madrid for me.

"I know how good this side is and I will have to work hard in training to force my way into the team. 

"I'd like to thank the president for depositing faith in me and when I knew the club were interested in signing me there was no way I could say no. 

"It has always been a dream of mine to play for Madrid and I'd like to extend my thanks to my family for their continued support. I'm here to work hard and make history with this club."

Giovanni Sanvido/Getty Images

The midfielder has shone for Spain's under-21 side and has spent two solid seasons in the Betis first team.

Ceballos has started 46 games in La Liga over the past two campaigns, including 18 appearances from the bench, per WhoScored.com.

Here is the new signing in action:

In other Real news, club captain Sergio Ramos does not want his team to sign Aymeric Laporte from Athletic Bilbao, according to reports from Spain.

Spanish outlet Diario Gol (h/t Joel Watson of the Daily Star) reported the Spain international wants the UEFA Champions League holders to instead clear a path for starlet Jesus Vallejo to make his way into the first team at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Vallejo left Real on loan last season, appearing 25 times in the Bundesliga for Eintracht Frankfurt—per WhoScored—after a loan spell at Real Zaragoza.

The 20-year-old has impressed Ramos, who wants to see the Spain under-21 player back in the Los Blancos squad.

Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images

Manager Zinedine Zidane has been linked with Laporte as he expands his options for the new campaign, per Diario Gol.

The 23-year-old is one of La Liga's top defensive talents, but injury has previously slowed his progression and chances of joining a top club.

He would be the perfect complement for Ramos after the departure of long-term partner Pepe, but the captain is an influential voice at the club.

Vallejo has a bright future, but he is not ready to carry the burden of success in the Spanish capital.