According to Guillermo Rai of The Athletic, it has come to light that Real Betis have always made it clear that they admire Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos and even tried to bring him back this summer.
However, the journalist mentions that financial limitations stopped them from making progress on the deal.
It was known for the large part of the transfer window that Ceballos appeared to be the most likely departure from Madrid.
French side Marseille also entered the picture, and talks were held between the two clubs. Yet, despite claims in both Spain and France that an agreement had been reached, no such deal was ever close.
Madrid had also internally discussed possible replacements in case the midfielder left, but no specific target was finalised.
The 29-year-old was open to leaving the Santiago Bernabeu and even asked the club to consider a transfer.
But as reported throughout the summer, it was always unlikely. The main obstacle was his high salary package, with Ceballos currently earning around €4.5 million net per season.
MADRID, SPAIN - MAY 24: Dani Ceballos of Real Madrid shows appreciation to the fans after the team's 2-0 victory following the LaLiga match between Real Madrid CF and Real Sociedad at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on May 24, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Dani Ceballos will not move this summer. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Few clubs were willing or able to match those figures while also paying Madrid’s asking price.
Although Marseille showed real interest, Ceballos’ preference was to remain in Spain, ideally with a return to Betis.
But the financial conditions meant a La Liga club making such a move was never realistic.
Betis, despite their admiration, could not afford the operation and instead shifted their attention towards signing Antony from Manchester United.
In the end, Ceballos will stay at Madrid, just like in previous summers when a move away seemed possible but failed to materialise.
While he may not be a guaranteed starter, his role in the squad remains important, and with the club unable to find the right buyer, his future continues at the Bernabéu.
OVIEDO, SPAIN - AUGUST 24: Xabi Alonso, head coach of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Oviedo and Real Madrid CF at Carlos Tartiere on August 24, 2025 in Oviedo, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
OVIEDO, SPAIN - AUGUST 24: Xabi Alonso, head coach of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Oviedo and Real Madrid CF at Carlos Tartiere on August 24, 2025 in Oviedo, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)