Former Real Madrid midfielder Rafael van der Vaart is returning to Spain.

The Dutchman, available from Hamburg SV, has agreed terms with promoted Real Betis.

Van der Vaart comes off contract at HSV this month and is understood to have agreed a three-year deal with Betis.

An announcement is expected in the next 48 hours.

Van der Vaart is due in Seville today to put pen to paper and meet Betis coach Pepe Mel.