Real Betis Balompié is in permanent contact with midfielder Dani Ceballos to pave the way for his signing. Sporting director Manu Fajardo and the player's camp are working to open a squad space for the operation. The terms of a potential three-year contract are practically agreed, and manager Manuel Pellegrini has approved the addition.
The Verdiblancos approach this sporting situation from seventh place in La Liga, with six points from two wins and one loss. Their next fixture is a high-voltage clash against Real Madrid at the Benito Villamarín on September 4, a match you can check on our fixtures page.
How is the Ceballos operation progressing?
The negotiation for Dani Ceballos's return to Real Betis Balompié is in an advanced stage. Sporting director Manu Fajardo explained the nature of the ongoing contact. "The bond is close between the parties and is a measure to calm the player and his environment, giving guarantees that the pending operations at Heliópolis will end well so the Utrera-born player can fulfill his wish to return," he said. Ceballos, who is a free agent, has been training alone in Madrid after watching a match involving his former team.
Pellegrini backs the signing but has simultaneously requested the arrival of a defensive midfielder to complete the squad. This request from the Chilean coach adds a layer of complexity to the planning for the transfer window, which closes imminently.
What departures does Betis need to sign him?
To register Ceballos, Real Betis Balompié must create room on their list, especially with an eye on the deadline for submitting Champions League squad lists, which expires on September 2. The club is seeking to sell Iker Losada, who has suitors in the Segunda División but is waiting for a Primera División option. Other possible exits that would free up a slot include Álvaro Fidalgo, who is being watched by several La Liga clubs, and Pablo García, who is attracting interest from around Europe.
The loan of Gonzalo Petit to Cádiz has already been completed, helping to adjust the squad. The current injury status, which includes Aitor Ruibal, Diego Conde, Giovani Lo Celso, and Petit himself, can be seen on our injuries page.
What is the team's competitive context?
While managing these market moves, Real Betis Balompié is preparing for a demanding stretch of the championship. The team has scored four goals and conceded five in its first three games, leaving a -1 goal difference. They sit three points behind leaders Barcelona in a table you can follow on our standings page.
The immediate priority is the match against second-placed Real Madrid. A positive result in that game would be a significant boost before the market definitively closes. Ceballos's wish to wear the green-and-white shirt again now depends on the club successfully concluding the necessary departures in the coming hours.
