After handing Real Madrid a real scare over talk of an exit, it has been claimed that Luka Modric has opted to remain at the Bernabeu.
The 32-year-old midfield maestro has established himself as a fundamental part of the club’s recent success, dictating the tempo of games regularly alongside the likes of Toni Kroos and Casemiro.
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That has resulted in a stunning trophy haul since moving to the Spanish capital, and having proven that he is still at the top of his game at the World Cup this summer, losing Modric would have been a massive blow for Julen Lopetegui on the eve of the new La Liga campaign.
However, according to AS, despite an important offer from Inter to prise him away to Italy this summer, it’s suggested that Modric has chosen to stay at Real Madrid and will get a wage boost to help keep him happy as he is said to have even informed the club of his choice.
Marca double down on that suggestion too of a significant pay rise to put him amongst the top earners at the club, and given his importance in making the side tick in midfield, it’s arguably worth every Euro.
Whether or not that was the intention all along is unclear, or perhaps a move to Inter to begin a new challenge was a genuine temptation.
Either way, it would appear as though Modric is staying with Los Blancos, who after already losing Cristiano Ronaldo this summer, would have been desperate to avoid seeing another pivotal player leave.
Coupled with the disruption and transition that will come after Lopetegui replaced Zinedine Zidane, Modric’s experience and calming influence in midfield is likely to be more important than ever in their pursuit of major honours.