Transfer Centre

Real Madrid 'agree new contract and pay cut with veteran midfielder'

By Ben Sully | 18 May 2024

Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric is reportedly set to sign a new contract to accept a reduced salary and extend his stay with the Spanish giants.

Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric has reportedly reached an agreement to extend his 12-year stay with the club.

The Croatian has 531 competitive appearances since joining the Spanish giants from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2012.

Modric has enjoyed significant success during his time with the club, winning five Champions League trophies, four La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey medals, five Spanish Super Cups, five FIFA Club World Cups and four UEFA Super Cups.

Once a guaranteed starter, the 38-year-old has had to settle for a substitute role for the majority of the 2023-24 campaign.

Carlo Ancelotti is ultimately spoiled for choice in the midfield department, with the Italian able to call upon the likes of Toni Kroos, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni.

Real Madrid's Luka Modric pictured on December 17, 2023 © Reuters

Modric on verge of new contract

Despite facing intense competition, Modric has still managed to accumulate 43 competitive appearances this season, contributing two goals and eight assists.

With his contract set to expire this summer, it initially appeared that he would bid farewell to Real Madrid at the end of the season.

However, according to AS, Modric is on the verge of extending his stay after reaching an agreement in principle over a new contract.

The report claims that Modric is close to finalising a new deal after holding successful talks with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.

Modric is keen to finish his playing career at the Santiago Bernabeu and is willing to take a pay cut to make that a reality.

Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos on October 7, 2023 © Reuters

Legendary duo set to continue

Real Madrid are working on a new deal for Modric's long-term midfield partner Kroos, who is also out of contract at the end of the season.

According to Marca, Kroos is yet to reach an agreement but is still expected to extend his 10-year stay with Los Blancos.

The Germany international has made 46 competitive appearances this season, contributing one goal and nine assists.

Modric and Kroos will have the chances to win their sixth Champions League winners' medal when Real Madrid face Borussia Dortmund in next month's final at Wembley.