Real Madrid have already set their sights on a perfect replacement for Luka Modric after it was confirmed he would be leaving the club after 13 trophy-laden seasons.
Luka Modric Set for Santiago Bernabéu Farewell as Real Madrid Line Up Replacement
Luka Modric, who joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, has cemented his legacy as one of the club’s all-time greats, winning an impressive 28 trophies during his tenure.
The 39-year-old extended his contract by a year last summer, and there had been speculation he might do the same again to play under former teammate Xabi Alonso, who is expected to take charge next season.
However, the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner is now set to play his final match at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday before officially departing after the Club World Cup in the United States.
Reflecting on his journey, Modric shared:
“I came here in 2012 with the dream of wearing the shirt of the world’s greatest club and hoped to achieve great things—but I never imagined all that followed.
Playing for Real Madrid transformed me both as a player and a person.
I’m proud to have contributed to one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.”
Following an underwhelming season in which Real Madrid missed out on both La Liga and Champions League titles, the club is moving quickly to reshape the squad. They’ve already secured a £50 million deal for Dean Huijsen and are set to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer.
As part of the midfield rebuild, Real Madrid are eyeing Paris Saint-Germain and Portugal star Vitinha as Modric’s successor. Strengthening at left-back is also a high priority as the club looks ahead to a new era.
Vitinha Tops Real Madrid’s Midfield Wishlist Amid Summer Overhaul
At just 25, former Wolves midfielder Vitinha has emerged as one of the top players in his position globally. He’s played a crucial role in Paris Saint-Germain’s journey to the Champions League final, forming a dynamic midfield trio with fellow Portuguese talent João Neves and Spain’s Fabián Ruiz.
According to MARCA, Vitinha is currently the leading target for Real Madrid as they look to refresh their midfield. The outlet notes that he “studied at the school” of legends Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić and is considered “the best option,” particularly because his youth enables him to press aggressively and recover possession fearlessly.
Known for his clean technique and exceptional passing range, Vitinha remains under contract with PSG until 2029, meaning Real would need to negotiate a significant transfer fee to secure his services.
While Vitinha is reportedly the top choice, other high-profile midfielders are also being considered, including Ballon d’Or winner and Manchester City mainstay Rodri, Enzo Fernández, Florian Wirtz, Nico Paz, Tijjani Reijnders, Franco Mastantuono, Angelo Stiller, and Hugo Larsson.
