dani ceballos is working to leave Real Madrid on a free transfer or by forgiving money owed so he can return to Real Betis. The 29-year-old midfielder has rejected other offers, including one from Ajax, and wants his next move settled on terms that keep Betis open.
Dani Ceballos and Real Madrid
Ceballos still has a contract at Real Madrid until June 2027, but the move now being discussed would take him out of the club before that point. He is trying to become a free agent or depart in exchange for giving up amounts owed, a path that would clear the way for the return he has wanted for years.
Real Madrid are also trying to reduce the squad wage bill, and Ceballos is not in José Mourinho's plans. Mourinho wants the squad situation resolved by early July, which puts pressure on the talks to move quickly rather than drift through the summer.
Betis and Ceballos
Real Betis are waiting for the player and Real Madrid to sort out the exit before they step in. Betis will play in the Champions League next season, and they are already weighing midfield additions because Altimira and Deossa are expected to leave while Amrabat's future is uncertain.
Ceballos has long believed a return to Betis is possible after several summers of approaches and hints. He was sold by Betis to Real Madrid nine years ago for 17 million euros, and the current talks would bring him back through a very different financial route.
The remaining issue is the shape of the deal itself. Ceballos is open to leaving as a free agent or spreading the money tied to his Madrid salary, which the article places at around five million net, over several years if he lands at Betis.
