Real Madrid ‘put talks to extend Luka Modric’s contract on hold’ despite his desire to extend stay

Real Madrid have put discussions regarding a new contract for midfielder Luka Modric on hold, according to reports in Spain.

The Croatian midfielder’s deal expires in June next year and Mundo Deportivo claim the 35-year-old is keen on extending his contract with Zinedine Zidane’s side.

However, the Spanish outlet claims the LaLiga champions will not be rushed into making a decision on the former Tottenham star, who joined Madrid from the north London side in the summer of 2012.

Real Madrid have put discussions regarding a new contract for midfielder Luka Modric on hold

Modric’s deal expires next summer and he is keen to remain a part of Zinedine Zidane’s squad

The report also adds that Modric would be willing to accept a lower wage as part of any new deal given that he is coming towards the end of his career, as MARCA had reported last week.

But there will reportedly be no problem on his part if he is asked to step aside and say his goodbyes to his team-mates if and when the club decide against a contract extension.

The Croatia international remains a key part of Zidane’s midfield despite the emergence of Federico Valverde and the return of Martin Odegaard, having played the most minutes of any Real midfielder this season.

Modric is also reportedly willing to take a wage cut from his current deal to remain at the club

The Croatia international has played the most minutes of any Real midfielder this season

He has featured in all four of Real’s games this season, playing 294 minutes from a possible 360 as the club sit top of the table with 10 points.

However, Valverde is seen as Modric’s long-term successor, while the return of Norwegian Odegaard from his Real Sociedad loan also offers Zidane an extra option in an enormously competitive midfield featuring established stars Casemiro and Toni Kroos.

Sergio Ramos and Lucas Vazquez also find themselves in similar positions to Modric with their current deals set to expire at the end of the season, too.

But Fede Valverde (left) is seen as his successor and Martin Odegaard (right) is another option

Ramos’ scenario will likely be different compared to Modric, seeing as he is club captain and is a year younger. 

Modric made 31 La Liga appearances last season where he contributed three goals and eight assists to help them win LaLiga.

Overall, he has made 347 appearances for Real, scoring 22 goals and winning 16 trophies including two LaLiga titles and four Champions League trophies. 

Sergio Ramos also has a year left but his legendary status means his scenario will be different