Real Madrid News
Real Madrid superstar turned down massive offers from Qatar, Saudi Arabia
For all his qualities and genius, Luka Modric has been one of the most sought-after midfielders in the world in recent years. There has been no shortage of clubs lining up in his pursuit over the years but the player’s commitment and dedication towards the Real Madrid crest has kept him in Spain.
As he nears the end of his professional career, however, the veteran is beginning to consider some of the alternative options on the table. Yet, he has always remained firm on his desire to play out one more year at the highest level.
According to reports from MARCA, Modric had two massive offers on the table that would have seen him leave Real Madrid in June. One was from Saudi Arabia and the other was from Qatar.
Real Madrid really feared that the midfielder would consider the lucrative offer from Saudi, but the money on the table did not deter his commitment as he turned down both offers.
Modric is now set to sign an extension with Los Blancos for a further season. All the details have been agreed upon and only the signatures remain to be completed. An official announcement can be expected in the coming days.
Modric has made 28 appearances in La Liga this season, scoring four goals and providing three assists in the process. Further, he averages 1.4 key passes per game and has created eight big chances.
His statistics in the Champions League are equally impressive. In just eight appearances in the competition this season, Modric has scored two goals and provided one assist whilst also creating three big chances.
The 37-year-old was expected to miss Real Madrid’s clash against Manchester City through a hamstring injury but has made a miraculous recovery. He will start against Pep Guardiola’s men later today, with manager Carlo Ancelotti confirming as much in his press conference.
Real Madrid set out on a mission to change the minds of Dani Ceballos, Marco Asensio and Nacho Fernandez earlier this week. After all, all three players were contemplating a departure from the club for a gross lack of minutes.
Los Blancos’ latest approach seems to have impacted Ceballos’ position in a positive fashion. However, Fabrizio Romano reveals that it has not changed Marco Asensio’s mind.
According to the Italian journalist, the Spaniard will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season as a free agent.
Of the numerous options on his table, he sees Aston Villa and PSG to be the best bets. In fact, Villa have already submitted their opening bid for the player as revealed by Fabrizio Romano once again.
After a dramatic final day of action in the Premier League, Aston Villa finished in the European spots and will participate in the UEFA Conference League next season. While a move to the English club would be a steep step down, it will see Asensio receive regular playing time.
Paris-Saint Germain, on that front, appears the more probable destination. The French club are close to losing both Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr ahead of the new season, and Asensio would thus fit in as a starting quality winger. Moreover, they offer Champions League football.
The Spaniard’s role at Real Madrid this season has not been minor by any means considering his contributions. In 30 La Liga appearances, the 27-year-old has scored nine goals and provided six assists in addition to creating nine big chances and averaging 1.4 key passes per game.
However, that does not satisfy the winger who wishes to be a starter week in and week out. His departure in June appears to be now written in stone, and the club should feel hard done to not make a penny of his move.
Many in Los Blancos’ administration see Brahim Diaz as a direct replacement for the Spanish international if he leaves. Needless to say, the AC Milan star’s future will closely depend on Asensio’s situation.
