Real Madrid fans are used to long transfer sagas, with Kylian Mbappé perhaps the most long-lasting in recent times. But as reliable as the summer comes, there are also rumours about Dani Ceballos’ return to Real Betis.
The 28-year-old Sevilla-born player extended his contract with Los Blancos two years ago, and is tied to the club until 2027. Nevertheless, Ceballos has been heavily linked with a return to his first club, Real Betis, over the past three summers. The Green and Whites have also shown interest, but have made it clear that they are not willing to pay a large transfer fee for him.
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Xabi Alonso removes all doubts
During the week, it was reported that Ceballos – like his teammate Eduardo Camavinga, who has also been given limited playing time lately – is not for sale. According to Cadena SER, manager Xabi Alonso has gone a step further and directly told Ceballos that he will not be sold this summer.
Ceballos himself has previously shown himself open to a transfer, publicly stating that he was “open to everything”. He has also hinted on social media that he was trying to get a transfer started. But it seems that Alonso considers him necessary for the squad.
Ceballos’ role under Alonso
Part of Ceballos’ uncertainty stems from limited playing time at the Club World Cup, where he got less than 90 minutes spread over six games. Next season, he will have to fight for his place with Arda Güler, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Fede Valverde, Camavinga and Jude Bellingham.
A strategic play from Alonso?
There have been many rumours that Alonso feels the need for another midfielder this summer, but that the club is not willing to spend large sums of money on a new signing. His decision not to use Ceballos during the US tour can therefore be interpreted as a signal to the board that he may not be completely convinced of the Spaniard’s necessity – and that a new reinforcement may be in order.
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In any case, one thing is clear: Ceballos will stay in Madrid – at least this summer.
