Dani Ceballos slams the breaks on Marseille transfer! Real Madrid agree loan deal but midfielder reluctant to join Roberto De Zerbi's side

According to RMC Sport, Madrid and Marseille have reached an agreement for Ceballos, with the midfielder set to move on loan with an option to buy. The 29-year-old has fallen down the pecking order under Alonso, making just 75 minutes of appearances this season. Madrid wanted to sell him permanently for €15 million but compromised to accept a loan move worth €1m up front with €4m available in bonuses, but Ceballos is not interested in making the move, AS reports. Instead he will either stay to fight for his place or seek a better offer, with Betis touted as a possible destination.

Ceballos has seen his path to the starting XI blocked since Alonso’s arrival. Despite injuries to Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, the coach has preferred Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni and Arda Guler in midfield. For Marseille, this is a major reinforcement as they look to add creativity and experience in midfield. Despite his limited opportunities in Madrid, he sees Ligue 1 as a step backwards from his current situation, Marca claims. 

The development comes as a blow to Marseille, who are also dealing with the uncertainty surrounding Adrien Rabiot’s future. The Frenchman was placed on the transfer list after a heated clash with Jonathan Rowe and Marseille have less than a week to find a replacement for him.

Spain international Ceballos has plenty of top-level experience, with over 200 appearances for Los Blancos and a two-year loan at Arsenal. He will need to secure more playing time as he looks to push for a role in Spain’s 2026 World Cup squad.

Marseille and Madrid may keep trying to persuade the player to accept the move. Otherwise, he may end up sitting on the bench for much of the season.