Real Madrid unsure about offloading exit-linked midfielder amid depth concerns | OneFootball

Despite bringing in at least four new players this summer, Real Madrid’s market activity is far from over.

The club are facing a challenge to trim their squad ahead of the new season, with Dani Ceballos emerging as one of the players linked with a move away from Santiago Bernabeu.

Ceballos has fallen behind in the pecking order and is unlikely to be a part of Xabi Alonso’s new setup.

Ceballos exit hinges on arrivals

According to Diario AS, Real Madrid are currently at a crossroads with Ceballos and are unsure whether or not they should sell him this summer.

The midfielder, who returned to preseason with the rest of the squad last week, has admitted that he is open to “everything”, including a departure, as he looks to secure regular minutes ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

What’s in store for Ceballos’ future? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

However, while the player is not closing the door, the club might be forced to, not out of confidence, but necessity.

With Jude Bellingham set to miss the first three months of the season due to injury, Madrid’s midfield depth could be under threat.

As things stand, only four midfielders are fit and available for three roles: Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde, and Arda Guler.

This shortage has led Real Madrid to rethink their stance on Ceballos. The club, after all, cannot afford to let Ceballos leave unless a new midfielder arrives.

And if he does leave, it would almost certainly be to make room for a new signing.

Ceballos, for his part, continues to assess his options, with former club Real Betis interested but unable to meet Madrid’s reported €20 million valuation.

Unless a new suitor appears with a serious offer, the 27-year-old may have to stay, at least for now.