Dani Ceballos is close to leaving Real Madrid for Olympique de Marseille

Dani Ceballos is close to leaving Real Madrid after falling out of favor under coach Xabi Alonso. The Spanish midfielder, a three-time Champions League winner, is in advanced talks with Olympique de Marseille over a loan deal with an option to buy, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano.

Marseille willing to invest €15 million

French outlet AS reports that Marseille are prepared to pay around €15 million for the 27-year-old. The deal structure is expected to include a purchase clause, giving the Ligue 1 side flexibility while Ceballos seeks more regular playing time.

Reduced role under Alonso

Since Alonso’s arrival, Ceballos has struggled for minutes, playing less than 10 minutes in La Liga this season. Even at the Club World Cup, he featured in four games but barely accumulated 70 minutes not even a full match in total. Once considered a valuable rotation player, he is now firmly on the fringes of the squad.

Career at Real Madrid

A product of Real Betis, Ceballos joined Real Madrid in 2017 and spent two seasons on loan at Arsenal before returning to Spain. Over seven years in Madrid, he has made 194 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing 16 assists. His trophy haul includes 14 titles, with three Champions League triumphs. He has also represented Spain 13 times at senior level.

Real Madrid off to strong start

While Ceballos considers his future, Real Madrid have begun the 2025/26 La Liga season strongly with two wins in two matches. Xabi Alonso’s side most recently defeated Oviedo 3-0 and will next face Mallorca on Saturday, August 30.