La Liga
The name of Dani Ceballos is back on the Real Betis' radar, which plans to make an offer in January to convince him to join for free in the summer of 2026. An operation crafted with patience, strategy, and nods to the Andalusian connection of the Real Madrid midfielder.
A strong bet by Betis for Dani Ceballos
Betis has been following Dani Ceballos in recent times, aware that the player's contractual situation opens a window. His contract with Real Madrid does not seem to be heading towards renewal, making the operation economically feasible. This reality sets the stage for the Verdiblanco club to act in advance.
As we have learned from Fichajes.net, Betis is already "sounding out" Ceballos' representation team to reach an early agreement, secure his will, and ensure his arrival when the market allows, without a transfer fee. A move that demands diplomacy, as Real Madrid does not publicly harbor the intention of letting go of the Andalusian.
Real Madrid and Dani Ceballos' role in LaLiga
Since Dani Ceballos returned to Real Madrid, his prominence has been irregular. He has had opportunities but does not appear as a key piece of the team in the latest LaLiga challenges. This is one of the reasons why his potential departure does not seem far-fetched: the white technical direction and sports management assess the need to strengthen other areas of the midfield, fueling speculation.
On the other hand, the possibility of securing his free transfer in the summer of 2026 represents a great opportunity for Betis in a market where saving on transfer fees can become a competitive advantage. In LaLiga, intelligent free transfer moves are increasingly valued as a formula for success.
Why now? The market and Betis' situation
Betis seems to be waiting until January not to incorporate Dani Ceballos immediately but to officially present an offer that ensures his commitment for the summer. This offer does not contemplate his immediate inclusion in the first team but rather prior support to bring him in as a free agent when the transfer window opens in 2026. In that sense, the strategy is patient and ambitious.
Furthermore, Betis has noted that other midfield targets are becoming complicated due to costs or competition, so the route of a free signing of a player with experience in LaLiga is seen as a masterstroke. And, of course, the fact that Dani Ceballos once wore the Verdiblanco colors —and still considers it "his home"— adds to the emotional aspect of the operation.

Executing well for everything to fit
The success of this operation depends on several factors: first, Dani Ceballos willingly accepting Betis' project; second, Real Madrid not choosing to renew him or include him in the immediate future; and third, Betis being able to present an attractive offer in January that commits the player without violating LaLiga's statutes or incurring excessive costs.
In many ways, this is a chess move. Betis knows that acting now with foresight allows it to get ahead of other clubs. And Dani Ceballos has the setting: he would return home, to Seville, to lead a new chapter in his career with a club he knows well. Real Madrid, meanwhile, keeps its options open, but the Andalusian midfielder's ascent to a fixed role has stalled, and his departure is starting to take shape as logical. In short, a combination of interest, opportunity, and planning that could culminate in the summer of 2026.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Betis reactiva las negociaciones con Ceballos
