Dani Ceballos transfer news: How Real Madrid midfielder messed up Olympique Marseille deal for Real Betis return

Dani Ceballos has reportedly decided to reject Olympique Marseille, as the 29-year-old felt a move to any French Ligue 1 side but Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) would be a step down career-wise, Spanish media reports said. However, the consequence of the decision is that he will remain at Real Madrid for another season, possibly playing second fiddle to other midfielders in the squad under Xabi Alonso.

It is certain that manager Alonso will give him some game time in the long run as part of the squad rotation. However, it remains to be seen if that will be enough for him to secure a place in Spain's World Cup squad for 2026. The competition for a starting role was said to be the reason that forced Ceballos to look for alternatives, including his boyhood club, Real Betis. However, Betis has confirmed that they are not planning to bid for the midfielder as a player of his style is not a priority as things stand. Reports said that Betis are working on a deal to get Antony from Manchester United on another loan deal.

The injury suffered by talismanic midfielder Isco was among the reasons that Betis was linked to Ceballos this summer. Olympique Marseille were willing to pay Madrid €10 million to €12 million for the Spaniard. Ceballos reportedly told Betis through his agents that he could make a comeback to the Villamarin Stadium if they could match this deal. Thus, the former Arsenal star backed out of the completed talks with Marseille. The French team will not re-enter the conversation since it would be a blow to their pride, and Betis are not showing interest either.

"Dani Ceballos to Real Betis was never a concrete option this summer despite recent links. Fantastic feelings between Ceballos and Betis but it’s considered impossible deal on financial point of view.Betis efforts are focused on Antony," transfer expert Fabrizio Romano had claimed.

Earlier reports had said that Real Madrid are open to selling Ceballos, who has a couple of years left on his current contract. The Real Betis board was not fully on board with bringing him back earlier, as they were unhappy that Ceballos decided to leave the club as a free agent instead of helping them get a transfer fee. However, Isco's absence may force them to change their stance, as signing Antony could cost no less than £26 million, and that is if they get lucky.