Real Madrid News
Real Madrid veteran rejects Ronaldo reunion, MLS approach to stay at the Bernabeu
A recent report from MARCA has offered a comprehensive update on Luka Modric. With his contract at Real Madrid expiring at the end of the season, there are speculations floating around over the future of the Croatian international, who recently guided his nation to a third-placed finish in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The report suggests Modric has received two lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and MLS respectively. The offer from Saudi, in particular, has come from Al Nassr, who have recently made headlines by signing none other than Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Saudi Arabian giants now want to take things one step further by adding more star players to their armoury. It appears Al Nassr are determined to become the Real Madrid of Arab football, as evidenced by their recent capture of Ronaldo.
Al Nassr have identified two top targets in the market currently. One is Sergio Ramos, who could join the club at the end of the season, while the other is Modric. They have approached the veteran midfielder, but the player has rejected any advances.
The former Tottenham starlet has received offers from MLS too, especially ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But his response has been clear: “We will talk in 2024”.
Modric’s response serves as a clear indication of his desire to continue at Real Madrid, at least for another season. Even at the age of 37, the Croatian has continued to thrive in his role and remains a star player for the team.
Real Madrid, too, consider Modric as a vital part of the squad, even amid speculation over the potential capture of Jude Bellingham in the summer of 2023.
The Whites may not have tabled an official proposal just yet, but Modric is prepared to sign a contract extension. Reaching an agreement should not be a problem for either of the two parties, as we enter the January transfer window.
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.
John Smellie
January 2, 2023 at 5:54 pm
Modric will always be a real Madrid player we don’t need cristiano at this club