Real Madrid wonderkid Sergio Arribas has arrived in Almeria for his medical ahead of a permanent transfer away from Los Blancos.
The 21-year-old has agreed a deal which will see Real Madrid receive €8m (£6.9m) for the Spaniard, whilst also keeping 50% of his rights.
Arribas scored 20 times for Real Madrid Castilla last season, and the attacking midfielder is one of the highest-rated products in the academy.
It is the fourth signing of the summer for Almeria, who are making some ambitious moves this summer, and have beaten the likes of Girona and Borussia Dortmund to the signature of Arribas.
Journalist Javier Gongora has revealed that Arribas arrived in Almeria earlier today to complete his medical, with his move set to be announced shortly.
The path to success?
Although he was one of the best prospects at the club, the signings of Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler meant that there is little room to develop at Real Madrid, but this departure does not completely end his chances of success at the Santiago Bernabeu.
By moving to Almeria, Arribas can follow a similar path to Fran Garcia. Arribas can permanently move to a team in La Liga where he will feature regularly, and if he impresses, Real Madrid can bring him back to the first team for a bargain price.
The versatile attacking midfielder is particularly impressive in front of goal, having scored 40 times for Castilla, and if he can translate this form to La Liga level, then Real could bring him back quickly.
With Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Lucas Vazquez ageing, Arribas could come back within a few seasons as a long-term successor to these midfielders if he does impress at Almeria, but he will still face stiff competition for a starting spot.
The performances of Brahim Diaz may be a huge factor in Arribas’ future. If Diaz performs well, he will likely stay at the club for the foreseeable future, reducing the space for a potential return. However, if he eventually moves on, Arribas can be his natural replacement on the right-wing or in midfield.
It is therefore important to keep an eye on his progress at Almeria, as he may not be gone for too long.