Dani Ceballos Set for Olympique Marseille Switch as Clubs Close Final Details

Dani Ceballos is close to leaving Real Madrid for Olympique Marseille. The move could be a loan with a purchase obligation. Talks have picked up, and a deal seems near. Ceballos hasn’t played much this season, and Marseille need him for their midfield in an important campaign. According to reports, Ceballos wants to move to Olympique Marseille.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Real Madrid and Olympique Marseille have been discussing Ceballos‘s transfer extensively. The 29-year-old Spanish midfielder wants to move because he isn’t getting much time under coach Xabi Alonso, playing only four minutes in two LaLiga games this season. Last year, he started 24 out of 68 games; he is now playing even less. Marseille want to borrow Ceballos before buying him, hoping he will take over for Adrien Rabiot after recent problems. Currently, Real Madrid is asking for €15 million, and both clubs are trying to agree as the summer window closes. Reports indicate that the two clubs are discussing a loan deal for him that will likely become permanent by next summer.

WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS FOR BOTH CLUBS

Real Madrid sit second in LaLiga after two games level on points with both Villarreal and Barcelona, and losing Ceballos would reduce their roster while eliminating a player who has been vocal about playing time. They face Mallorca, who lost their two opening matches. Olympique Marseille, with new boss Roberto De Zerbi, have one win and one loss in Ligue 1 after two matches. They need depth to finish in the top-four and play in European competitions after Rabiot’s potential exit. Marseille have made Ceballos a priority signing to bolster their squad, and closing this deal would allow Ceballos to revive his career and enhance his 2026 World Cup hopes with Spain.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

The clubs will keep talking to finalize the transfer’s structure. Marseille play Lyon next. Lyon have a 100% winning record so far, so they need a midfield fix now. Real Madrid would call up younger players to the first team if Ceballos leaves with no new signings. With less than a week left in the summer window, a swift resolution is necessary. Marseille want to announce Ceballos soon, while Madrid must maintain their squad for the long season ahead.