Luka Modric is not averse to the idea of joining Manchester City in the scenario wherein he decides to call it quits at Real Madrid next summer.
According to a report by Catalan outlet El Nacional, Manchester City have been handed a major boost in their bid to sign Luka Modric in next summer’s transfer window. The Croatian midfielder is ready to join the Premier League champions if he leaves Real Madrid.
Luka Modric joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2012 and has since gone on to establish himself as one of the all-time greatest midfielders. Initially branded as a failure by the Spanish media, the Croat has gone a long way in proving his naysayers wrong, and has created a lasting legacy at Real Madrid.
The winner of multiple titles as well as a Ballon d’Or over the past decade or so, Modric has made 398 appearances for Real Madrid while chipping in with 28 goals and 62 assists along the way. However, Los Blancos are in a precarious situation over his future, with the 36-year-old currently in the final year of his contract. Such a situation has piqued the interest of Manchester City.
Manchester City appear set to lose Fernandinho as a free agent next summer as things stand and they are eager to bring in an experienced head to be a short-term solution in midfield upon the exit of their club captain. This is where the interest in Modric comes into the picture for the Citizens.
In addition, with Bernardo Silva’s future still being up in the air, it is prudent for Manchester City to keep their options open. With that in mind, Modric is a viable target for the Premier League champions, considering the veteran Real Madrid midfielder is still going strong at 36.
Modric was even pursued by former Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, who is now at AS Roma. However, the 2018 FIFA World Cup finalist is only prepared to join Manchester City if he does not renew terms with the Merengues by next summer.
Real Madrid, on their part, are seemingly laying down a succession plan for Modric, with Nicolo Barella identified as one of the potential options to replace the 36-year-old. Having said that, it remains to be seen if the Spanish giants end up losing Modric to Manchester City or if he is handed a new deal anytime soon.
