Real Madrid have reportedly agreed to end Dani Ceballos’ contract early, allowing the 29-year-old midfielder to depart on a free transfer. Despite Ajax expressing strong interest in signing him, the Spanish star is believed to favour an emotional return to his hometown club, Real Betis. Ceballos is said to have turned down his final year’s salary to make the long-awaited move possible.

End of an era for the Spanish midfielder at Real Madrid

Real Madrid and Ceballos have reached a mutual agreement for his release this summer. Since joining Los Blancos from Real Betis in 2017, the 29-year-old has often been linked with a move away. Reports suggest that he is prepared to forgo his final year’s wages, enabling him to leave without a transfer fee. During his time in the Spanish capital, Ceballos made 215 appearances, scoring seven goals and helping the team lift three UEFA Champions League trophies and two La Liga titles. Though his departure appears imminent, his successful spell at the club has cemented his place in its modern history.

Ajax face competition from returning hero

While Ajax have shown genuine intent to bring the experienced playmaker to the Eredivisie, Ceballos’ heart seems set on a return to Real Betis. The Seville-based club are reportedly waiting for the official termination of his Real Madrid contract before completing the signing. For Ceballos, this move would mark a sentimental homecoming — he rose through Betis’ youth ranks and made his professional debut for the club before moving to Madrid. He previously represented Betis in 105 matches, scoring seven goals. Local reports suggest Betis are ready to act swiftly once his release is confirmed, as the midfielder prefers a return to his roots over a new challenge in the Dutch league.

Limited playing time and loan experiences defined his journey

The Spanish international has struggled for regular minutes at Real Madrid in recent seasons. In the last campaign, he featured for just 826 minutes across 23 appearances, including 16 matches in La Liga and four in the Champions League. His time with Los Blancos also included a productive loan spell in England, where he represented Arsenal in the Premier League.

Over two seasons with the London side, Ceballos made 77 appearances and scored two goals, notably helping Arsenal win the FA Cup in 2020. Despite collecting an impressive total of 15 major trophies during his tenure with Real Madrid, the lack of consistent first-team opportunities appears to have prompted his decision to seek a permanent exit.

What lies ahead for Ceballos?

Real Betis are expected to officially unveil Ceballos as their new signing in the coming days once his contract termination is completed. Although Ajax have missed out on a potential marquee acquisition, the midfielder will now aim to reignite his career in familiar surroundings. His extensive top-level experience is likely to provide a significant boost to Betis’ ambitions for the upcoming season.