Arsenal transfer news: Dani Ceballos deal in doubt as Unai Emery admits Marco Asensio injury could be ‘bad news’ for Gunners

The Real Madrid forward suffered a serious injury in the friendly against Arsenal, which could alter the Spanish club’s thinking over Ceballos’ future

Dani Ceballos’ move to Arsenal has been thrown into doubt after the Real Madrid star’s teammate Marco Asensio suffered a serious knee injury in a pre-season friendly against the Gunners.

Ceballos, after shining in the European Under-21 Championships and inspiring Spain to victory, is eager for increased playing time next season.

And Real had conceded he would require a loan with minutes likely to be limited under Zinedine Zidane next season.

Unai Emery appeared set to sign Ceballos on loan, but after Asensio suffered what appears to be an ACL injury and a probable nine-month absence, Emery concedes the agreement could be jeopardised.

“I don’t know (if the injury will affect our deal for Ceballos),” Emery said after Arsenal lost on penalties following the 2-2 draw.

“Our target also was not to take injuries in that match, and they maybe have with Asensio.

“It [could be] bad news, for them and also for us. I don’t know if it can change something.”

Asensio is taken off on a stretcher (USA TODAY)

While Zinedine Zidane would not be moved on the injury at such an early stage.

“It has nothing to do with one thing. We are all touched by Marco, hopefully as little as possible, just that,” said Zidane.

Ceballos is keen for increased playing time (Getty)

“We’re a little worried (by Asensio). It’s the knee. He went straight to the hospital to get tested and see.

“But it looks bad. It’s the bad thing of the day for us. because we lose a player and we are a little touched, yes.”