Real Betis' condition to make Ceballos' signing official

The green-and-white team is working to finalize the signing of the midfielder from Utrera, who would arrive for free after breaking ties with Real Madrid.

Héctor Andreu | 2 Jul 2026 | 16.33
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<p>Dani Ceballos has to lower his salary / Goal</p>
<p>Dani Ceballos has to lower his salary / Goal</p>

La Liga
1 X 2
Valencia Real Betis
16/08/26 17:00:00
2.60 3.25 2.63

Dani Ceballos is one of the key topics in this transfer market for Real Betis. The 29-year-old midfielder from Utrera has parted ways with Real Madrid and is now free to decide his future, a scenario that brings his return to Heliópolis much closer than in previous transfer windows.

The move comes at a crucial moment for the Andalusian club. With the departure of Sergi Altimira to Sporting de Portugal and with Facundo Bernal on the verge of reinforcing the midfield, the sporting direction aims to make a statement. The operation carries both sporting, emotional, and economic weight.

Dani Ceballos and Real Betis Are Making Moves

Real Betis has initiated talks with Dani Ceballos's entourage to understand the real conditions of his return. Joaquín Sánchez and Manu Fajardo have managed the preliminary stages, yet the decisive negotiations now lie in the hands of the top management due to the player's salary demands.

The player's desire is favorable but not a complete solution. Ceballos wishes to feel important again, compete in a familiar environment, and regain continuity that eluded him in his last season as a Madridista. His season was marred by injuries and lack of playing time, featuring only 23 official matches and just four league starts.

In Heliópolis, they understand that this context should influence the negotiation. The club is willing to make an effort but not to break its salary structure. The clear idea is that if the player genuinely wants to return, he will also have to adjust his demands.

Salary, the Major Obstacle to Returning to LaLiga

The main point of contention lies in the player's wage. Dani Ceballos may aspire to a status similar to the club's top figures, but Betis is reluctant to create internal disparities or exceed its salary cap. The operation must be ambitious yet sustainable.

Although other teams may offer more financially, the sentimental factor plays in favor of the Green and Whites. Returning to Spain, doing so in LaLiga, and donning the Betis jersey once more heavily influences the midfielder's decision.

His market value currently stands around €7 million, but the key factor is that he is available on a free transfer. This allows the focus to be on the salary and potential bonuses, with the awareness that the squad still requires adjustments before the start of the season.

Betis Demands Salary Cut from Ceballos

An Operation Impacted by Timing

Both parties aim not to prolong the process excessively. Manuel Pellegrini needs to work with the definitive group as soon as possible, and if the deal materializes, Ceballos wishes to join the preseason preparations promptly. The longer the negotiation drags, the higher the risk of new scenarios emerging.

At La Palmera, they see in Dani Ceballos a distinctive profile for their midfield: composure, final pass, personality, and an understanding of the intricate game. He is not seen as a future project but rather as a player expected to deliver from day one in a demanding season.

There is also an aspect of redemption. The Utrera-born player left for Real Madrid at a young age, competed at the top level in Spain, won titles, yet never fully established himself as an essential piece. Now, in his prime, he seeks a project where he can be a protagonist once again.

The outcome will depend on the flexibility of all involved. Dani Ceballos is available, eager to return, and Betis sees him as a strategic move. If the numbers align, LaLiga may welcome back a talented player with character and unfinished business in Heliópolis.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La condición del Betis para hacer oficial el fichaje de Ceballos