Dani Ceballos deal off! Marseille president confirms end of transfer talks after Real Madrid midfielder requests time to consider offer

Marseille and Madrid were close to reaching an agreement for the transfer of Ceballos. However, the midfielder's doubts and view that the move may be a step back in his career prompted the French club to withdraw their offer, according to Marca. The 29-year-old wants to stay at the club and fight for his position in Xabi Alonso's team or find a better offer.

Ceballos has fallen further down the pecking order at Madrid since Xabi Alonso's arrival, but he has not given up on his dream of securing regular playing time in the Spanish capital. He is also eager to earn his place in Spain's World Cup squad, meaning he must find a solution to his current predicament. It appears a move to Marseille is off the table, though, as the French club's president confirmed an end to the talks.

President Pablo Longoria was asked about the Ceballos case on Wednesday, telling a journalist: "We were interested, to be honest, but, well... There are certain circumstances that you as a club can't control, right? And above all, as always, Real Madrid is a gentleman's club and has always behaved well."

Ceballos has already flirted with a move back to Betis this summer and the club are eager to bring their former youth star back, but the economic terms of the deal make it difficult. However, Madrid would accept a bid in the range of €10 million for Ceballos and this payment can be divided into terms as well, giving a boost to the Andalusian club.

Betis will have to act quickly to get their former youth player as the transfer window deadline approaches closer. They are also in advanced stages of re-signing Antony on loan from Manchester United. Meanwhile, Ceballos has a contract with Madrid until 2027 and is in no rush to secure a move elsewhere.