Luka Modric is set to switch Real Madrid for Saudi Arabia after seeing his gametime diminish this season.
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Modric set to leave Real Madrid in 2024Several Saudi clubs interestedMidfielder lost place to BellinghamWHAT HAPPENED?
According to Sport, Modric will leave Real Madrid when his contract expires at the end of the season. Over the summer he reportedly rejected a contract offer from a Saudi club worth £120 million a season ($149.5m). At 38 years old, he is expected to retire in the Saudi Pro League.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Modric signed a one-year contract at the end of last season as he believed he could still make a significant contribution at the elite level. However, the Croatian midfielder has started just five of Madrid's 17 matches in all competitions this term, with new signing Jude Bellingham becoming the focal point of midfield and attack. After 12 trophy-laden years at the Bernabeu, it looks like Modric is ready to move on.
WHAT THEY SAID
A January departure has already been ruled out by Real Madrid's general director Jose Angel Sanchez. He recently said: "We have no open negotiations with the Saudi Arabian League for a possible departure in January nor any intention to sell him [Modric] at this time."
WHAT NEXT FOR MODRIC?
Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad are the Saudi Pro League sides linked with Modric. A move to the latter would see him rekindle his superb partnership with former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema. Before that though, Modric will be focussed on helping Madrid's bid to reclaim La Liga and Champions League crowns.