Who is Dani Ceballos? The controversial Madrid target who called for 'Catalan dogs' to be bombed

The Spanish champions have been heavily linked with a move for the Real Betis midfielder, but he insists that no transfer has yet been struck

Dani Ceballos has denied claims that a deal is in place for him to join Real Madrid from Real Betis. The 20-year-old is under contract at Betis until 2020, but reports in the Spanish media claim La Liga champions Madrid are poised to meet Ceballos' rumoured €15 million release clause and loan him back for next season. However, Ceballos – who helped Spain reach the final of the European Under-21 Championship in a 3-1 win over Italy on Tuesday – says those suggestions are mere paper talk. "The rumours are not true," he told Cadena Cope. "The team with which I currently have a contract in force for three years with is Real Betis." Ceballos, though, has conceded a Betis exit is not completely out of the question, but insists his priority for the time being is helping Spain's U-21s succeed in Poland when they face Germany in Friday's final. "I do not know if next year I will play in Betis," he added. "I now have my holidays and my priority is to win the final on Friday."Ceballos - who has also previously been linked to Atletico Madrid - made 30 Liga appearances last term, scoring two goals and supplying as many assists.