Dani Ceballos may have just played his final minutes in a Real Madrid jersey. After a brief cameo in Los Blancos’ dominant win over Real Oviedo, the Spanish midfielder took to social media with a cryptic “last dance” post, fueling speculation about an imminent departure. With the transfer deadline looming, Ceballos’s future appears increasingly uncertain — and a move away from the Santiago Bernabéu is looking more likely by the day.
eballos Sparks Exit Rumors with “Last Dance” Post
The writing may be on the wall for Dani Ceballos at Real Madrid. The 29-year-old came off the bench late in Madrid’s recent La Liga clash against Real Oviedo, and shortly after the match, he shared a photo of himself on social media with the caption “last dance.”
The message, widely interpreted as a farewell hint, has ignited transfer rumors, suggesting that Ceballos is on the verge of a move before the summer window slams shut.
Marseille in Talks for Loan Deal
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Ligue 1 side Marseille are actively pursuing Ceballos. Discussions with Real Madrid are reportedly underway, with a potential loan deal—featuring a purchase option—on the table. However, Romano noted that negotiations are far from straightforward, and both clubs will need to bridge gaps to finalize the agreement.
Real Betis Return Still on the Radar
Adding further intrigue, Ceballos recently liked an Instagram post from a Real Betis fan account showing him in the club’s kit. The gesture has fueled talk of a possible reunion with his boyhood club, where he began his professional career before joining Madrid in 2017.
A return to Betis would not only be sentimental but could also offer the regular playing time he’s currently lacking under new Madrid manager Xabi Alonso.
Playing Time Dwindling Under Xabi Alonso
So far this season, Ceballos has made just two brief appearances off the bench in La Liga and failed to feature during the 2025 Club World Cup, remaining an unused substitute twice. With Alonso reshaping the midfield, young talent Arda Güler has been repurposed into a deeper role — one that now blocks Ceballos’s path to consistent minutes.
This shift in tactical preference suggests Ceballos is no longer central to the club’s plans, further supporting the idea that a transfer is on the horizon.
A Storied but Inconsistent Madrid Career
Since arriving from Real Betis eight years ago, Ceballos has made 194 appearances for Real Madrid, tallying seven goals and 16 assists. His most active campaign came just last season, with 42 appearances across all competitions.
Ceballos previously spent two seasons on loan at Arsenal (2019–2021), where he gained valuable Premier League experience before returning to become a rotational option under then-manager Carlo Ancelotti. But with Ancelotti’s departure and Alonso ushering in a new era, Ceballos’s role has diminished significantly.
Transfer Deadline Looms
While nothing is finalized yet, the signs point toward a move away from Madrid before the September 1 transfer deadline. Whether it’s Marseille, Real Betis, or another surprise suitor, Ceballos appears ready for a fresh chapter — and Real Madrid may soon bid farewell to a once-promising midfield talent.
