Dani Ceballos set for Real Betis return as club races to resolve final squad issues

Dani Ceballos is close to signing for Real Betis, with the final details of his return potentially being completed within the next few hours.

The long-running transfer story involving Ceballos and Real Betis is nearing its conclusion as the summer window approaches its deadline, according to Diario AS. However, some issues still need to be settled before the move can be formally completed.

The two parties have agreed the main terms of Ceballos’ contract. The midfielder’s deal was initially expected to be a long-term agreement after the end of his spell with Real Madrid, but its structure has since been adjusted to reflect Real Betis’ unexpected financial requirements this summer.

Real Betis and Ceballos have now reached an understanding over a three-year contract, with the option of extending it for a further season. The agreement would make him one of the highest-paid players in the squad, although not necessarily the club’s top earner.

Ceballos has played a significant role in trying to force through his departure from Real Madrid, despite having one year remaining on his existing contract. Real Betis are now working against the clock to create the financial room required to complete the transfer.

Over the past 24 hours, the club have been attempting to reduce their wage commitments through a series of moves. Those efforts include trying to part company with Losada, secure the highest possible fee for Pablo Garcia and find a player capable of competing with Alvaro Fidalgo.

The aim is to free sufficient space in the wage budget to register Ceballos while also allowing the club to sign the defensive midfielder strongly requested by manager Manuel Pellegrini.

The process will not be straightforward, particularly with the transfer deadline approaching, but there is a positive mood within Real Betis. The club have even considered personally overseeing some of the deals to help guarantee that they are completed successfully.

Ceballos could still sign for Real Betis after the summer transfer window closes because he would be a free agent. His registration for the Champions League, however, appears unlikely.

UEFA have asked clubs to submit their lists of players eligible to take part in the competition by Wednesday. That deadline means Real Betis would probably be unable to include Ceballos in their Champions League squad, even if his return to the club is finalised after the transfer window has shut.

Ceballos began his career at Real Betis before moving to Real Madrid, and the Spanish midfielder has been pushing for a return to the club. The current negotiations have therefore focused not only on reaching an agreement with the player, but also on ensuring that Real Betis can meet the financial and registration requirements needed to complete the move.