Recently departed Real Madrid midfielder set for emotional return to boyhood club | OneFootball

Dani Ceballos appears to be on the verge of completing a long-awaited return to Real Betis after ending his spell at Real Madrid. 

The midfielder recently reached an agreement with Los Blancos to terminate his contract, paving the way for a move back to the club where his professional career first began.

Now, according to Mundo Deportivo, the groundwork for a reunion has already been laid, with Betis officials maintaining contact with the player for some time despite the absence of formal negotiations.

Ceballos ready for Betis return

Ceballos’ decision to part ways with Real Madrid has brought him one step closer to fulfilling a wish he has held for several years. 

The Spanish midfielder agreed to waive his contract in exchange for leaving on a free transfer, removing one of the biggest obstacles that had previously complicated a return to Betis.

Ceballos is heading to Real Betis. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Although Real Betis have not officially opened negotiations with the player, discussions regarding a potential comeback have already taken place behind the scenes.

As reported by the outlet, sporting director Manu Fajardo and club advisor Joaquin Sanchez have remained in touch with Ceballos and outlined the conditions necessary for the move to materialise.

The first requirement was for the midfielder to leave Real Madrid without a transfer fee, a condition that has now been fulfilled following the termination of his contract.

The second challenge concerns finances. Ceballos would have to agree to a substantial salary reduction, with his current earnings understood to be well beyond Betis’ wage structure.

Betis to reward Ceballos with a long-term contract

While a salary decrease is expected, Real Betis are prepared to offset it by offering the midfielder stability through a lengthy contract.

Ceballos leaves Real Madrid as a free agent. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

The Andalusian side is believed to be considering a deal lasting four or five seasons, allowing Ceballos to return to his boyhood club and become a central figure in the project.

The player already has a clear understanding of the framework Betis intend to propose, and signs suggest he is willing to accept those terms. 

His willingness to leave Real Madrid without demanding compensation is seen as a strong indication that a return to Benito Villamarin has become his preferred destination.

Ceballos has also turned down opportunities elsewhere in Europe, with the latest proposal coming from Ajax, who were willing to pay Real Madrid around €6 million for his services.