Modric reaffirms commitment to Madrid amid Ronaldo’s Al Nassr links
The 37-year-old is in his 11th campaign at the Santiago Bernabeu, during which he won 22 trophies, but is expected to be out of contract at the end of the season.
He has been touted as a possible target for Al Nassr, who caused a stir with Cristiano Ronaldo in December following his release from Manchester United.
But when asked about his future while on international duty with Croatia on Friday, a frustrated Modric made it clear his priority was to agree new terms with Madrid.
“My wish is known: to stay at Real Madrid,” he told a pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s encounter with Wales. “I believe and hope that it will come true.
“The rest of what is said is just speculation and rumour. I repeat the same thing for the hundredth time: I hope and believe that I will stay at Real Madrid.”
Modric, who has previously said he wants to feel like he deserves a new deal, has also dismissed claims Madrid have asked him to step down from his duties in Croatia.
“Short and clear – no,” Modric said when the suggestion was made to him.
The former Zagreb and Tottenham midfielder is on course to earn his 163rd cap for Croatia when they face Wales in their first Euro 2024 qualifier in Split.
Having opted not to retire following Croatia’s World Cup semi-final loss to France, Modric will overtake Drazen Ladic as his country’s oldest player.
“I didn’t know that before the conference and I don’t know if it’s good or bad!” Modric said. “I feel good with the national team and I’m happy to be here. I feel happy when I’m here.
“We are all focused on the Wales game. Hopefully we can get a positive result and bring that confidence to Turkey.
“The most important thing is that we win tomorrow. We know we are the favorites and they are expected to win, but football is unpredictable and you have to be 100 per cent.”
Modric reaffirms commitment to Madrid amid Ronaldo’s Al Nassr links
