Exclusive: Real Madrid Monitor Betis Centre-Back Natan, Eyeing €50M Price Tag

Real Betis centre-back Natan has emerged as one of the most coveted names in the 2026 winter market. 

After a dominant half-season in La Liga, the 24-year-old Brazilian is now at the centre of a high-stakes transfer tug-of-war involving Real Madrid, Chelsea and Newcastle United.

From Loan to Indispensable

Natan’s rise has been meteoric. 

Initially joining on loan from Napoli, his physical presence and tactical intelligence quickly made him the cornerstone of Manuel Pellegrini’s defence. Real Betis officials moved swiftly to trigger his €9 million buy option, securing his services until 2030. However, that valuation already looks like a bargain as Europe’s elite begin to circle.

The Scouting Report: London and Madrid Calling

Scouts from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Newcastle have been ever-present at the Benito Villamarín this season. Their reports highlight Natan’s physicality and aerial dominance as "perfectly suited" for the rigors of English football.

Seeking to bolster their defensive rotation, Real Madrid have also placed Natan on their immediate radar. Having seen his quality firsthand in La Liga, the Meringues view him as a high-upside investment. Sources close to the player suggest that a move to the Bernabéu would align with Natan’s personal preference, as he is keen to remain in Spain rather than move abroad mid-season. While Madrid are reportedly willing to meet Betis’ valuation, any formal bid is unlikely to materialise until the summer, when the club anticipates a more opportune window to secure the defender.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos has also been linked with a move to Aston Villa, who were left disappointed after missing out on Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid.

Sources indicate an unnamed European heavyweight competing in the Champions League has made initial inquiries, though no formal offer has landed yet.

Betis’ Firm Stance: Not For Sale (Yet)

Real Betis is playing a strategic long game. The club has publicly stated they will not entertain offers during the January window, viewing Natan as vital to their European ambitions.

To ward off mid-season bidders, Betis has effectively slapped a €40M to €50M valuation on the defender.

The Andalusian club expects his value to skyrocket further by the summer, setting the stage for one of the window's biggest bidding wars.

Player Commitment

Despite the allure of the Bernabéu or the Premier League, Natan remains focused. 

Sources close to the player suggest he is "fully committed" to Pellegrini’s project and happy in Seville. He intends to finish the season in Spain to ensure his development continues without the risk of a rushed mid-season move.