Liverpool Transfer News: Reds, Real Madrid Linked in Dani Ceballos Rumours

Liverpool are likely to encounter competition from La Liga giants Real Madrid should they pursue a deal to sign Real Betis starlet Dani Ceballos next year.

According to Spanish website Fichajes.net, the Reds have made the creative youngster their "top transfer target" ahead of the January window (via Metro's Louis Sealey).

Liverpool have been linked with Ceballos in the past, but the idea of competing against Spanish titans Real for his signature is a daunting one.

Real made a noticeable effort to recruit young talent this summer, bringing in the likes of Marco Asensio and Jesus Vallejo.

But Ceballos was quoted by Inside Spanish Football on deadline day, voicing his intention to remain with Betis: "I want to stay with Betis and enjoy these fans for many years to come. They were just rumours; the only thing I really want is to stay with Betis. I’ve always given everything for this shirt, and I’m only thinking about returning the love I’ve received from the Betis fans."

The problem for Pepe Mel's side, however, is that Ceballos has entered the last year of his contract with the Spanish outfit, making him an easier target for Brendan Rodgers' Liverpool.

ESPN FC's Dermot Corrigan noted Los Merengues were hopeful of landing the teenager right up until the deadline, and there's every chance Rafa Benitez's side may launch another move for the playmaker:

Spanish newspaper Marca reported Ceballos' release clause stands at €12 million (£8.8 million), but it's unclear as to whether the Reds would be willing to match that fee in the winter market.

The deal becomes especially problematic when one considers Ceballos will become a free agent next summer, but the Merseysiders run the risk of the midfielder agreeing to move elsewhere should they hold out until then.

The English giants will have considerable Premier League competition on their hands, too, after Metro's Jamie Sanderson cited Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo, who reported Chelsea have already made an approach.

David Cartlidge of beIN Sports has highlighted the need for Betis to come to an agreement over the future of one of Spain's most promising up-and-comers:

Nineteen-year-old Ceballos has already been capped three times for the Spanish under-21s and made 33 league appearances for Los Verdiblancos last season en route to sealing top spot in the Segunda Division.

The presences of Brazilian maestros Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino may appear to limit Ceballos' chances in attacking midfield should he move to Anfield, but opportunities would be far greater than those at Real.

The prodigy's expiring contract situation makes his a target potentially too good to pass up on, but Betis are likely to play hard ball over their starlet's release clause, regardless of how close he runs to the end of his deal.

Rodgers would be adding one of La Liga's hottest prospects to his ranks if he were to succeed in a move for Ceballos, who would follow fellow Spaniards Alberto Moreno, Luis Alberto and recently departed Javi Manquillo to Anfield.