Real Betis are stepping up efforts to re-sign Dani Ceballos from Real Madrid after star midfielder Isco suffered a serious injury that will keep him sidelined for several months. 

The Seville-based club are eyeing an ambitious move for their former player to fill the creative void left by Isco’s absence. The former Spain international sustained a non-displaced fracture to his left fibula, forcing Betis to seek urgent reinforcements ahead of the new La Liga season.

Ceballos, who came through Betis’ youth academy, has reportedly submitted a formal request to leave Real Madrid this summer. 

While the 28-year-old has struggled to cement a regular starting spot at the Bernabéu, he remains a technically gifted midfielder with the vision and passing range that could immediately strengthen Manuel Pellegrini’s squad. 

The deal, however, is far from straightforward, as the two clubs remain apart on the transfer fee. Real Madrid are said to be holding out for around €20 million (£17m/$23m), a figure Betis hope to negotiate down.

The transfer saga is not new. Since leaving Betis in 2017, Ceballos has been repeatedly linked with a return to the Estadio Benito Villamarín. 

Injuries and fierce competition for places at Madrid have hampered his progress, but the midfielder has never hidden his affection for his boyhood club. 

Sources suggest that Ceballos may be willing to accept a pay cut to facilitate the move, although Betis president Ángel Haro has previously warned the club will not agree to a “huge transfer fee.”

Ceballos’ contract at Madrid runs until 2027, giving Los Blancos the upper hand in negotiations. 

The three-time Champions League winner remains valued by manager Carlo Ancelotti as a squad player, but with limited opportunities and Betis’ strong interest, the door to an exit may finally be opening. 

Whether Madrid are willing to compromise on their asking price will be decisive in determining the outcome.