Dani Ceballos Move to Marseille Stalls as Clubs Fail to Reach Agreement

Dani Ceballos’s transfer from Real Madrid to Olympique de Marseille remains unresolved, with negotiations still ongoing and no full agreement reached between all parties.

WHAT IS THE LATEST?

Despite reports earlier in the day suggesting a deal was imminent, Real Madrid and Marseille have not finalized Ceballos’s move. The Spanish midfielder is interested in joining Marseille and has already agreed on personal terms. Both clubs have discussed a loan deal that will likely become permanent by next summer, but differences in player valuation and contract details are holding up the transfer. Real Madrid are reportedly seeking around €15 million for Ceballos, while he is pushing for the move to boost his playing opportunities, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching. Marseille see him as a replacement for Adrien Rabiot, who is expected to leave the French club soon. Negotiations are at a decisive stage but have not yet produced the green light needed for completion.

CONTEXT: TEAM AND PLAYER STATUS

Real Madrid have started the 2025-26 La Liga season well, sitting second in the table after two matches, having secured two straight wins while scoring four goals and conceding none in their first two games under manager Xabi Alonso. Dani Ceballos has found minutes hard to come by, making just one substitute appearance so far this season. At 29 years old, he is looking for regular football to revive his career after being considered surplus to requirements in Madrid. Marseille, under manager Roberto De Zerbi, have one win and one loss in Ligue 1 after two matches, and finished in 2nd place last season, qualifying for the Champions League. They are looking to rebuild their midfield, especially with Rabiot’s likely departure. Ceballos’s arrival could bring much-needed experience and technique to a side thatfinished only behind Ligue 1 and Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain. Marseille’s next match is against Lyon, who sit just above them with a 100% winning start, making it a key fixture in their push for Champions League qualification.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

With the summer transfer window closing in a few days, both clubs face pressure to conclude negotiations swiftly. If the deal goes through, Ceballos could debut for Marseille within the next week. If talks break down, he may remain at Real Madrid with limited opportunities, or the Spanish club could pursue other transfer options. Meanwhile, Marseille will have to move quickly if they want to strengthen their midfield before the window closes. Their fixture against Lyon could prove crucial for their Ligue 1 ambitions, as a win would take them into the top three and solidify their European prospects for next season.