LIVE Transfer Talk: Modric, Kroos could stay at Real Madrid

Posted Monday, May 20, 2024 by ESPN

Luka Modric has agreed in principle to stay at Real Madrid for one more season after agreeing to a reduced salary, while a similar deal could now follow for teammate Toni Kroos, reports Marca.

Modric, 38, has been in improving form in the second half of the season and boss Carlo Ancelotti understands what the Croatian brings to the team regarding ability and leadership on and off the pitch.

Modric's agent admitted on Saturday that his client will "most likely stay one more season" with his existing deal due to expire on June 30, and this despite Madrid's initial plans to let him leave this summer.

Modric and Kroos are considered big earners in the squad, and though Modric has played just 2,140 minutes this campaign, his presence is considered a positive influence on the dressing room culture.

Kroos is also likely to stay if given a chance, with the 34-year-old still excelling in the centre of Madrid's midfield. The Germany international has racked up the sixth-highest number of minutes in the squad in 2023-24, and he has proved he can still hold his own at the highest level.

Diario AS reported on Sunday that there's a "tense calm" inside the club regarding Kroos, saying "nobody, absolutely nobody knows what Kroos is going to decide" with "no scenario being ruled out."

Madrid have lifted another league title and have reached the Champions League final, both of which have prompted Ancelotti, and the Madrid hierarchy, to want to keep the side together.