Real Madrid will let Dani Ceballos leave on free transfer

Real Madrid have confirmed they will not request any fee – not even a single euro – for midfielder Dani Ceballos this summer, with the club saying his salary removal will offset the loss and that a mutual contract termination is being prepared.

Real Madrid are looking to accelerate sales at this point in the summer transfer window, balancing arrivals with necessary departures to revamp the midfield. The club’s summer strategy has been described as one of urgency, treating exits with the same speed as signings.

Midfielder Dani Ceballos is seen as a top candidate to leave due to his lack of prominence in recent seasons under various managers. His limited role has been cited as a reason for seeking a departure.

Since his latest renewal with Real Madrid, Ceballos’ situation has not gone to plan; he rejected a departure at the last moment last summer, hoping for prominence under Xabi Alonso. He is now open to leaving the club.

Earlier this week discussions stalled because Real Madrid initially did not want to allow a free exit. Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano now reports the club will not demand a single euro and is prepared for a free transfer.

The club says that removing Ceballos’ salary from the wage bill will be sufficient economic compensation. The most likely outcome is a mutual contract termination, enabling him to become a free agent and link up with any interested team.

Formalities are expected to be swift now that Real Madrid have resigned to gaining nothing from his departure. Ceballos is likely to join his boyhood club Real Betis, a move he has pursued for several years, which would fulfil his long‑standing ambition to return to his hometown side.