Dani Ceballos Poised for Juventus Move as Real Madrid Set High Price
Juventus Targets Real Madrid Midfielder to Strengthen Midfield Depth
Juventus is actively pursuing Dani Ceballos from Real Madrid, signaling their intent to bolster a midfield currently facing potential exits. The 28-year-old Spaniard, who has limited playing time under new Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, is reportedly attracting attention from several clubs, with Juventus leading the charge. The Serie A giant prepares to submit a €12 million offer, while Real Madrid values the midfielder at around £20 million, making negotiations a key focal point this summer.
The Midfield Situation at Real Madrid
Ceballos remains contracted to Real Madrid until 2027 but finds himself down the pecking order behind a star-studded midfield including Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouameni, and Arda Güler. Despite playing an important squad role last season with 44 appearances across competitions, Ceballos struggled to secure consistent minutes, particularly under the tactical system of Xabi Alonso. His diminished role marks a significant change from previous years when he was valued by Carlo Ancelotti’s staff.
Real Madrid enjoyed a successful 2024-25 season, contending strongly in La Liga and Europe, but the midfield dynamics shifted under Alonso’s arrival. The club appears open to streamlining their squad by potentially selling Ceballos as they seek to balance the squad and free up roster spots for fresh additions.
Juventus’ Midfield Reinforcement Strategy
The Serie A club faces a midfield overhaul with the expected departures of Douglas Luiz and possibly Weston McKennie. Currently, only Manuel Locatelli and Khephren Thuram stand as reliable options. In this context, Ceballos is seen as a valuable, technically skilled graduate of La Liga who offers creativity, experience, and depth. Juventus management, led by Damien Comolli, is actively scouting midfield reinforcements and views Ceballos as a cost-effective solution compared to other targets such as Yves Bissouma or Franck Kessié.
Despite Juventus preparing an offer of €12 million, Real Madrid’s valuation at £20 million could complicate negotiations. No official bids have yet been accepted, and discussions regarding personal terms with Ceballos are still pending.
Ceballos’ Future and Interest from Other Clubs
Other potential suitors include AC Milan and Ceballos’ former club Real Betis. While Milan showed interest earlier in the summer, Betis is currently focused on signing Manchester United’s Antony. Ceballos himself has publicly expressed openness to a potential return to Betis, calling the club “home” and hopeful that the door remains open for him. However, there have been no formal talks to date between him and Betis.
Having made 192 appearances and scoring 7 goals with 16 assists for Real Madrid since joining from Betis in 2017, Ceballos brings a blend of experience and familiarity with top-level football, making him an attractive midfield option for several teams this transfer window.
Performance Overview: Dani Ceballos at Real Madrid
- 44 appearances in the 2024-25 season
- Intermittent goals and assists, contributing when called upon
- Outpaced by emerging and established midfielders under coach Xabi Alonso
- Limited minutes in major tournaments including the 2025 Club World Cup
Real Madrid’s 2024-25 Campaign and Midfield Dynamics
- Strong performances domestically and Europe-wide
- Midfield reconfiguration under new management philosophy
- Openness to selling fringe players to maintain squad balance
Juventus’ Midfield Needs Ahead of 2025-26
- Departure of Douglas Luiz and possible exit of Weston McKennie
- Necessity for experienced backup to Locatelli and Thuram
- Ceballos as a technically adept, affordable La Liga-experienced option
The unfolding transfer saga surrounding Dani Ceballos promises to be a key storyline of this summer window. Juventus’ pursuit, Real Madrid’s valuation strategy, and Ceballos’ own career considerations keep many eyes on this impending deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the transfer fee Juventus is prepared to offer for Dani Ceballos?
Juventus is reportedly ready to offer €12 million to Real Madrid for Dani Ceballos, although Real Madrid values him at around £20 million.
Why does Dani Ceballos want to leave Real Madrid?
Ceballos is considering his future mainly due to limited playing time under new coach Xabi Alonso, with several midfielders ahead of him in the squad hierarchy.
Are there other clubs interested in signing Ceballos?
Yes, AC Milan and Real Betis have shown interest. Real Betis is focusing on other signings currently, but Ceballos has expressed openness to a return to his former club.
Is the move to Juventus confirmed?
No official bids have been accepted by Real Madrid yet, and personal terms between Juventus and Ceballos have not been discussed as of now.
What are Juventus’ midfield needs that Ceballos would address?
With Douglas Luiz and Weston McKennie likely to leave, Juventus requires experienced and creative midfielders. Ceballos is seen as a skilled, cost-effective addition to provide depth alongside Locatelli and Thuram.
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