Betis eye ambitious bid to bring Real Madrid midfielder back as injured Isco faces several months out

Ceballos is once again the subject of a potential move to his former club, Real Betis, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo. The speculation has intensified following a long-term injury to Betis star Isco, who recently suffered a non-displaced fracture to his left fibula. Ceballos has reportedly formally requested to leave Real Madrid this summer to rejoin the Seville-based side. However, a significant obstacle remains in the transfer fee, with Real Madrid seeking up to €20 million (£17m/$23m), while Betis are looking to pay a much lower figure.

Ceballos' return to Betis has been a recurring rumour since he left for Real Madrid in 2017. Despite a series of injuries and a struggle for consistent playing time at the Bernabeu, Ceballos has a strong desire to return to his boyhood club. Betis' need for a creative midfielder to replace the injured Isco, who is expected to be out for several months, has made the move a more realistic possibility. The midfielder's willingness to take a salary cut could also be a key factor in making the transfer financially viable for Betis, whose president, Angel Haro, has previously stated the club won't pay a "huge transfer fee."

Despite his desire to return to Betis, The three time Champions League winner has a contract with Real Madrid until 2027. His current salary and the asking price set by Real Madrid have been the main stumbling blocks in previous transfer windows.

With the La Liga season fast approaching, Real Betis must act quickly to find a replacement for Isco. The club's interest in Ceballos is clear, but they will need to negotiate a fee that works for both clubs. If the transfer goes through, Ceballos would provide a much-needed boost in midfield, filling the creative void left by Isco and bolstering the squad for their upcoming La Liga campaign as they start their campaign next week against Elche.