Real Madrid News
Real Madrid midfielder rejects offers from Saudi Arabia, America to continue at club
There has been a lot of talk over the future of Luka Modric lately, with the Saudi Arabian government reportedly offering the Real Madrid midfielder the opportunity to sign a bumper two-year contract worth €60 million, along with full tax exemption.
Modric’s current contract at Santiago Bernabeu expires at the end of the season, meaning the midfielder will have the option to choose his destiny come the summer.
However, according to Diario AS, Modric is not tempted by the offers from Saudi Arabia or even MLS, for that matter. He is firm about continuing his career at Real Madrid for at least another season before he can take a more conclusive decision on his future.
Even at the age of 37, the veteran believes he has what it takes to continue at the highest level of football. His fitness levels suggest he can continue to be a crucial player for the Real Madrid first-team, and given his importance in Carlo Ancelotti’s setup, the Croatian’s prolonged stay could be beneficial for the club as well.
Real Madrid are indeed willing to hand him another contract extension, which is in line with their policy of offering a maximum of one-year contracts to players above the age of 30.
Although the Whites do not traditionally keep hold of players as old as Modric, the Croatian international has shown he has the capability of remaining a crucial player for the team. As such, he would like to remain at the Bernabeu for another year.
Modric also wants to compete in the UEFA Nations League with Croatia and is even hoping to participate in the UEFA Euro in 2024, which will be played in Germany.
The 37-year-old, though, has no shortage of options should he opt to depart Real Madrid. Saudi Arabian giants are already after his signature while clubs from MLS have also sounded out the possibility of luring the midfielder across the Atlantic.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
