Real Madrid News
Real Madrid unhappy with international call-ups for veteran midfielder – report
Now 37, Luka Modric is well and truly in the final phase of his career. However, it does not seem like it. The midfielder is still running the Real Madrid midfield with just as much energy as he had half a decade ago, or more.
Madrid are very happy with Modric, and want to renew his contract. His contract situation will not depend on Jude Bellingham or any other midfielder’s arrival, as was confirmed by the veteran himself.
However, Los Blancos frown upon the fact that Modric continues to play with Croatia, reports AS.
The ex-Tottenham Hotspur man has the most caps in the history of Croatian football, with 162, and is also unanimously regarded as the best player ever produced from the country.
His achievements are also well-noted, including a runners-up World Cup medal in 2018, and a bronze one in 2022.
Most assumed that Modric would retire after the 2022 World Cup, but that does not seem to be the case, as he has been called up for European Championship qualifiers against Wales and Turkey.
It is clear, though, that he does not have much left in his tank. Since he is an undisputed starter for both club and country at his age, it makes him as big an injury and exhaustion risk, especially with the hectic schedule.
It serves as a huge problem for Madrid, who, while having impressive depth in midfield, have endured a lot of injuries over the past few seasons.
As we approach the final phase of the 2022/23 campaign, Real Madrid are facing immense pressure to renew the contracts of two of their veterans Karim Benzema and Luka Modric.
According to a recent report from Josep Pedrerol, Real Madrid have been made aware that Saudi Arabian clubs have contacted the two, with the aim of bringing them to the Middle East to enhance their league.
Modric has been facing an uncertain future with his contract expiring at the end of the season. While he is in talks with Madrid over a renewal, the midfielder has also been approached by Saudi Arabian clubs, as they look to enhance the league by roping in stars from Europe.
Al Nassr notably made headlines earlier in the year by bringing in Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United. Since then, Saudi clubs have been linked with moves for players like Sergio Ramos, Eden Hazard and even Lionel Messi.
Modric, too, is considered one of the top targets for Saudi clubs. Although the midfielder has expressed his desire to continue at the Bernabeu for at least another year, a deal with Real Madrid has not materialised. This has opened up a window of opportunity for Saudi clubs to make their move.
Meanwhile, Karim Benzema was reported to be close to finalising a renewal recently, but an agreement is yet to be reached. The Frenchman has had his share of struggles with injuries and fitness this season, which has led to questions about his longevity and future at Real Madrid.
While the links to a move to Saudi Arabia have not been as prominent for Benzema, it is expected that the Saudi clubs may jump on any opportunity to lure the striker to the Middle East.
Real Madrid are aware of the situation and are working to secure the futures of their star players. However, with the prospect of lucrative contracts being offered by the Saudi Arabian clubs, the players themselves may be tempted to make the move.
