Dani Ceballos offered Champions League return by several clubs as midfielder's stance on Real Madrid future revealed

According to a report from AS, Ceballos has received offers from several unnamed clubs set to participate in this season's Champions League. However, the former Arsenal midfielder is not inclined towards leaving Real Madrid this summer.    

Ceballos begins the season on the fringes of Madrid’s midfield. He is, however, determined to stay in the Spanish capital and battle for a place under new head coach Xabi Alonso, much like he did with previous boss Carlo Ancelotti before an injury halted his momentum in February 2025. Despite interest from several big clubs, Ceballos is currently focused on staying and proving his worth. However, the potential arrival of a new midfielder — with links to Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton in recent days — could force him to reconsider. Madrid would allow his departure for an offer between €15–20 million (£13-17m/$17-23m). With Fede Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, and Arda Guler ahead in the pecking order, Ceballos sits sixth in line. A return to former club Real Betis remains a long-standing dream, though financial constraints make it unlikely at present.    

Last month, it was reported that Alonso had blocked the exits of both Ceballos and Camavinga, as he believed that the former could potentially fill the void left by the absence of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. Ceballos came on as a late substitute in Madrid's opener against Osasuna on Tuesday, but could yet play an important role as the season progresses. Of course, that hinges entirely on whether he remains at the Santiago Bernabeu beyond the transfer window deadline. 

It looks unlikely that Ceballos will join a new team. Rarely do Los Blancos ever force out a player who wishes to remain with the team. The 29-year-old has shown over the past few years that, if he can remain fit, he can challenge for a spot in the playing XI. It remains to be seen how Alonso plans on using him. Meanwhile, Betis continue to track their ex-player, especially as they seek a replacement for the injured Isco.