Real Madrid extended Luka Modric’s contract for a further season this summer, with the 38-year-old looking to remain a vital part of Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
However, this has not been the case until now. Modric certainly played an important role in Los Blancos’ comeback against FC Barcelona in the last Clasico, but overall he has been relegated to the sidelines since his withdrawal at half-time in the Madrid derby.
Last season, Modric remained an indisputable starter for Ancelotti, but this season he only started in 6 of 16 matches, playing just 617 minutes. While he was in the Croatian selection, Modric publicly expressed his dissatisfaction.
According to Rudy Galletti, this situation encouraged two Saudi Arabian clubs to show interest in him during the January transfer window. He had already been the object of desire this summer, but had refused a fantastic contract to stay at Santiago Bernabéu. This winter, Al Ittihad and Al Ahli are interested in Modric, but unlike in the summer, they will need permission from Real Madrid if they want to complete the deal immediately.
Aurélien Tchouameni’s metatarsal injury should keep him out of action for two months, which should somewhat reduce Modric’s concerns. Eduardo Camavinga will sink into the pivot role, meaning Modric will become the primary midfield alternative after Toni Kroos and Fede Valverde. It seems more likely that the Croatian will reserve his departure for the end of the season, but there is no doubt that Saudi Arabia will put a lot of money on the table to persuade him otherwise.
