Luka Modric rules out Al Nassr rumours, insists on staying at Real Madrid

Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric’s future continues to be a subject of speculation as his contract expires this summer.

While he continues to defy his age with impressive performances on the pitch, Madrid’s intense pursuit of Jude Bellingham has raised doubts over Modric’s place in the squad.

The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner has courted interest from Saudi Arabian outfit Al Nassr, who recruited his former Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in the winter.

However, Modric once and for all ruled out the rumours of his potential move to Saudi Arabia, stating that he intends to stay at Santiago Bernabeu.

Ahead of Croatia’s European Championship qualifying game against Wales, Modric said (h/t Fabrizio Romano): “My wish is known, I want to stay at Real Madrid. I believe and hope it will happen.

“The rest are only assumptions and rumours. I repeat for the 100th time, I hope and believe I will stay at Real Madrid.”

Modric played a pivotal role in Zlatko Dalic’s Croatian side winning the bronze medal in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The 37-year-old has also been a vital cog in the midfield for Los Merengues, helping them reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League this season.

It was reported recently that Los Blancos are locked in talks with Modric over a one-year extension until 2024.

His midfield partner Toni Kroos is also out of contract in the summer, and the German midfielder remains coy over his future.

In addition to Bellingham, Madrid are working on deals to sign Celta Vigo sensation Gabri Veiga and bring Brahim Diaz – currently on loan at AC Milan – back to the club.