Real Betis president Angel Haro has revealed that Dani Ceballos has rejected the chance to sign a new contract with the Seville club, and the midfielder is now close to joining Real Madrid.
Ceballos, 20, was named the Player of the Tournament at the European Under-21 Championships this summer as he played a key role in Spain Under-21s reaching the final of the competition.
Barcelona and Juventus were both said to be interested in the midfielder, but according to Haro, Ceballos is heading for Real Madrid after the Spanish champions activated his £10.5m release clause.
"Ceballos has rejected the offer of renewal of Betis," Haro told reporters. "From what we understand, Real Madrid have reached an agreement for the player to complete his transfer.
"We made a good offer to the player but when a team come in and pay the release clause or more, you can do nothing. We will know more in the coming hours but the situation is now out of our hands."
Ceballos scored twice and provided two assists in 30 La Liga appearances for Betis last season.
Matt Law
