Dani Ceballos seemed close to a surprise transfer to Olympique de Marseille, the two clubs have apparently reached a preliminary agreement.
This departure would leave Xabi Alonso in search of last-minute alternatives, the Spanish giant seeking to reduce its workforce for the 2025-26 season.
This news surprised more than one, especially since the markets and the new Paris sites already adjust their odds for the next games, the bettors reassess the depth of the Real Madrid midfielder for the coming season. The potential departure of Ceballos represents a significant change in the club's transfer strategy, which seemed almost completed after its summer expenses of 200 million euros.
Transfer to Marseille canceled
The French club appears to be the favorite to obtain the signing of Ceballos, rumors of a loan with an obligation to purchase 15 million euros. The 29 -year -old midfielder had already agreed to join the Roberto de Zerbi project, considering this as his best chance of obtaining regular playing time before the 2026 World Cup.
Roberto DE ZERBI appreciates the profile of Ceballos
Ceballos fueled speculation about his departure with an enigmatic Instagram message entitled “Last dance” after the Real Madrid 3-0 victory against Oviedo, where he only appeared four minutes at the end of the match. The timing of this message, combined with its minimum playing time under Alonso, created the ideal conditions for its departure.
However, Ceballos seems to have had doubts at the last minute, and Marseille gave up his transfer. The place of Ceballos remains uncertain, linked to its former Real Betis club, but it could also stay at Santiago Bernabéu.
