After weeks of intrigue, Real Madrid announced on Monday that Luka Modrić has signed a new one-year contract extension, tying him to the club until June 30, 2024. The Croatian midfielder has chosen to continue his journey in white, turning down lucrative offers from elsewhere in the world to keep playing at the highest level in Europe.
Real Madrid thereby secures one of its most storied figures. The club notes that Modrić is a Ballon d’Or winner from 2018 and adds plainly: a player who wore the jersey for 11 seasons featured in 488 matches and helped the team win 23 trophies. Those trophies include five Champions Leagues, five Club World Cups, four European Super Cups, three La Liga titles, two Copa del Reys, and four Spanish Super Cups, a record of contributions that have etched his name into the club’s recent history.
Offer from Saudi Arabia to Modrić
As Modrić approaches his 38th birthday in September, he opted to extend his career in Europe rather than pursue the substantial financial lure from Saudi Arabia. The reported offer reached around 120 million euros, a sum that rivals the total earnings Modrić has accumulated throughout his career with Dinamo Zagreb, Tottenham Hotspur, and Real Madrid.
Interest from Saudi Arabia first emerged in the winter window, and while Modrić initially did not respond to the overtures, a renewed bid with improved terms subsequently followed. Real Madrid had to consider the possibility that his decision could mark a concluding chapter in his time with the club, though the commitment he chose will keep him in the squad for another season.
Modrić’s renewal places a heavy onus on Real Madrid’s midfield leadership. The next campaign will feature seven established players for three positions, including Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Kroos, Bellingham, Ceballos, Valverde, and Modrić, with plans to ensure depth and experience while integrating younger talents with higher ceilings.
Real Madrid transfer market
With Modrić’s contract extension confirmed, Real Madrid moves forward with the first phase of its summer market activity. Earlier, the club announced renewals for Nacho Fernández, Toni Kroos, and Dani Ceballos. Departures and incoming players followed in the club’s evolving plans, as Karim Benzema, Marco Asensio, Mariano Díaz, and other players saw their paths diverge. New signings included Brahim Díaz, Fran García, Jude Bellingham, and Joselu Mato, signaling a strategic refresh in line with the club’s long-term ambitions.
The rest of the summer market remains open, with ongoing negotiations and potential movements on the horizon. Questions linger about the future of Kylian Mbappé and the status of players like Álvaro Odriozola and Jesús Vallejo, who may seek new directions. The situation of Andriy Lunin also remains under consideration, and the club remains open to opportunities on any front as the season approaches.