The Utrera-born midfielder terminated his Real Madrid contract to give himself freedom to choose his next destination, and his preference is understood to be clear.
Real Betis, however, are wary of over-committing financially, with sources close to the club suggesting any deal must fit within a wage structure where Isco and Antony would still rank above him. Betis are reportedly offering a maximum net salary of around €2.5m per season, which would place Ceballos on the club's second wage tier rather than at the very top.
Ceballos himself dropped another hint on social media, posting a training photo with a short message to fans.
"Hungrier than ever. More work than words. Ready for what's coming. See you soon," he wrote — the latest in a string of personal posts in which he has invited supporters to speculate on his future and the obstacles that could yet complicate a move.
Betis view Ceballos as the player who could elevate a midfield already undergoing plenty of change. Facundo Bernal's arrival was confirmed on the same day the Ceballos talks rumbled on, while Nelson Deossa appears to be nearing the exit following Sergi Altimira's own departure. Ceballos would slot into a prominent role under Manuel Pellegrini, a coach who has never shied away from building his side around genuine quality in midfield.
There remains caution in Heliópolis over how the deal will play out, and Ceballos has his own priorities to weigh up. Ajax have also expressed interest and made clear they want him in their project, though the midfielder has consistently signalled that a return to the club he left nine years ago remains his first choice.
Betis are eager to have any deal wrapped up quickly, keen for Pellegrini to work with a settled squad as early as possible ahead of a season that will see the club return to the Champions League for the first time in its history.