Real Madrid midfielder formally requests summer exit to join La Liga rivals – report | OneFootball

According to Real Madrid Confidencial, Dani Ceballos has formally requested to leave Real Madrid this summer in order to rejoin Real Betis.

It is to be noted that the midfielder has been on Betis’ radar for quite some time, with the club attempting to bring him back just last summer. However, a move never materialised due to the high asking price set by Los Blancos.

This time, the situation may be different. Betis have suffered a major blow with Isco’s recent long-term injury, leaving a significant gap in their midfield. The loss of their creative leader could push the club to reignite their pursuit of Ceballos.

At the Santiago Bernabeu, Ceballos has struggled to establish himself as a key figure. Injuries and a lack of consistent trust from successive managers have left him on the fringes.

His departure has been discussed internally for some time, but the right opportunity had yet to arise.

Salary sacrifice could pave the way

With Isco sidelined, Ceballos now sees a real chance to return to his boyhood club. Reports suggest he is even willing to make financial sacrifices to make the deal possible, including reducing his sizeable Real Madrid salary.

Dani Ceballos could move to Real Betis. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

This determination could be decisive in facilitating a transfer, especially given Betis’ limited budget.

Despite the renewed possibility, it is worth noting that this is not the first time Ceballos has hinted at a Betis comeback.

Ceballos wants to return

Over the past few years, the midfielder has often fuelled speculation about a return, only for a deal to fall through.

As a result, until there is an official announcement, his exit from Real Madrid remains in the realm of rumour.

If Betis do make a move, the transfer could benefit all parties. Ceballos would get the game time he craves, Betis would strengthen their midfield in Isco’s absence, and Madrid would offload a player who has been on the periphery for too long.

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this long-talked-about reunion finally becomes a reality.