Real Madrid Slaps Eye-Watering Price Tag on Star Midfielder Desperate for Exit
Real Madrid have set a minimum asking price of €15 million ($17.4 million) for Dani Ceballos this summer, as the midfielder seeks an exit from the Spanish capital.
Despite receiving more playing time last season due to Los Blancos' numerous injury problems, Ceballos has consistently remained outside the first-choice lineup at Real Madrid. Throughout his tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu since 2017, the Spanish player has typically been the fourth or fifth midfield option regardless of the coaching staff.
The situation hasn't improved for Ceballos under Xabi Alonso's management. With Fede Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga and Arda Güler all ranking higher in the squad hierarchy, the former Arsenal player appears likely to seek a departure this summer.
According to AS, Real Madrid are prepared to consider bids for Ceballos in the €15 million ($17.4 million) bracket. The club previously demanded €20 million ($23.2 million), but has reduced their valuation for the surplus midfielder.
While Real Madrid haven't actively marketed Ceballos for transfer, the club would welcome "attractive" proposals. Indeed, generating revenue from the midfielder, who remains contracted until 2027, would benefit Los Blancos following their €163 million ($188.7 million) summer spending spree.
For Ceballos personally, the 28-year-old reportedly recognizes he has minimal prospects of securing a place in Alonso's starting eleven, particularly after managing just 70 minutes during the FIFA Club World Cup this summer.
After the competition concluded, Ceballos publicly expressed his intentions and hinted at a potential return to Real Betis, his boyhood club: "Betis is my home and it will always be. I hope the door is always open."
The perfect outcome for Ceballos would mirror Isco's journey, who departed Real Madrid in 2022 and has since rejuvenated his career at Real Betis.
However, until Real Betis or another club presents an offer meeting the Spanish champions' valuation, Ceballos will continue as a Real Madrid squad member.