As the winter transfer window draws near, Real Betis has made a significant change to its approach. Manuel Pellegrini has ended the waiting game following months of conjecture on Dani Ceballos’ possible return to the team where he started his football career. Betis can no longer afford to be delayed in a crucial position, as the Chilean manager has rejected the idea of bringing the Utrera native back.

In recent years, Ceballos has consistently shown interest in Heliópolis. The midfielder has always been a target for the Verdiblanco club, despite his lack of consistent playing time, and he feeds speculations every summer and during every transfer window. From an economic perspective, however, the operation was not simple. The only practical solution was a loan because of his large salary at the Spanish capital club and the requirement that Madrid pay a portion of his compensation.

Pellegrini and the sporting management have decided to alter their approach in light of the impending winter transfer window and the pressing necessity to strengthen the midfield. In this regard, AS midfielder Enzo Le Fée has emerged as the main January alternative.

Claudio Ranieri has no plans for the 24-year-old Frenchman at the Italian team. With only 257 minutes played in the league this season, his low level of participation has made it simpler for Betis to view him as a market opportunity. Le Fée embodies all the qualities the club is looking for in a player: technical skill, promise, and availability.

Betis intends to obtain a loan that will strengthen the squad without jeopardizing its precarious pay cap. Le Fée may see this transfer as a chance to revitalize his career in a team that would give him playing time and an opportunity to excel, given his contract with Roma expires in 2029.

Ceballos’ rejection, meanwhile, signifies a sea change in the player-Betis connection. Even while it seemed certain that he would eventually return to the club, this choice might put an end to that possibility. The team cannot wait much longer, according to Pellegrini. Betis needs quick fixes to stay competitive in the face of major obstacles in the European competitions.

Enzo Le Fée’s presence appears to be a calculated risk that could have a significant impact in the later stages of the season. Now, everything hinges on if the talks with Roma work out, but Heliópolis is getting ready to receive its first winter addition.