Real Madrid News
Real Madrid veteran has no problem staying despite unsatisfactory conditions
Real Madrid are poised to officiate the renewals of veteran midfielder Luka Modric, along with two other veterans in Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema, within the coming days.
The new deal will see Modric remaining at Santiago Bernabeu for another year. There were initial doubts on whether or not the midfielder would renew given the fact that he had offers from other clubs, including the Saudi Arabian giants.
But more importantly, Real Madrid had reportedly set out multiple conditions, including the fact that his overall game-time will be reduced heading into the new season.
According to MARCA (h/t Madrid Xtra), though, Modric has had no problems accepting the contract renewal from Real Madrid despite the conditions being put forth by the board.
The veteran midfielder understands why his game-time must reduce in the new season, knowing the club are expected to bring in Jude Bellingham, who could become the club’s face in the midfield unit in the years to come.
The lack of minutes next season does not bother Modric. He just wants to stay at Real Madrid for at least another season before venturing out elsewhere.
At the age of just 37, Modric has remained an asset for the Real Madrid team due to his experience, leadership and technical ability. He has featured in almost 50 competitive matches this term, racking up six goals and six assists.
There is no doubt he will play a critical role in guiding the young Bellingham next season. And with experience often a key factor in crunch Champions League matches, Modric and Kroos’ prolonged stay at the Bernabeu could be useful as Los Blancos look to clinch the trophy again next season.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid eye €3.5 million-rated relegated Premier League striker to reinforce attack
Following a difficult season with troubles in La Liga and the Champions League preventing Real Madrid from retaining their crowns, Los Blancos move towards a transformative summer, full of innovations.
Real Madrid managed to clear plenty of unwanted figures at the club, with a huge relief on the wage bill. However, with an array of exits, the squad has contracted and thus replacements are being inquired.
Apart from the high-profile departure of Karim Benzema, fringe players have also bid their farewell.
Among those names is Mariano Diaz, who was Madrid’s backup striker prior to his withdrawal. Several names have been put on the table to fill his absence as the club largely aim to address their lack of depth.
According to Arancha Rodriguez (via RM4Arab), Leeds United striker Rodrigo Moreno is one of the names gaining consensus in the Madrid hierarchy. Moreover, Joselu has also been considered as a viable alternative.
The two favourites to replace Mariano have proven to be important figures for their clubs as both strikers maintain a starting role.
Playing for Espanyol, Joselu ended the La Liga campaign as the third top scorer, only behind Benzema and Lewandowski. Considering Espanyol’s relegation, such a feat looks even more impressive. The Spaniard secured 19 goals in all competitions.
On the other hand, Rodrigo Moreno recorded 16 goals last season across all competitions. Similar to Joselu’s case, the Spanish international also suffered relegation with Leeds, in spite of his good numbers.
With both players offering adequate output in struggling sides, Real Madrid’s interest is practical. Moreover, considering both Espanyol and Leeds were relegated, their asking price will undeniably lower, which enables the Merengues to sign one of the two targets at a more convenient rate.
It is claimed that Rodrigo has a release clause worth €3.5 million which Los Blancos would have to trigger to sign him from Leeds United.
It now remains to be seen whether Carlo Ancelotti & co. go after the former Valencia man or move for Joselu instead.
