As the curtain begins to fall on Luka Modric’s illustrious Real Madrid career, an intriguing subplot has emerged surrounding his impending move to Milan. The Croatian maestro, widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, is set to join the Italian giants on a two-year contract following the conclusion of the Club World Cup currently being held in the United States.
With his graceful exits against Al-Hilal and Pachuca, Modric was met with rousing ovations—proof of the admiration fans hold for him across continents. But the Rossoneri fans hoping to welcome their new star should prepare for more than just one arrival.
According to reports from Corriere dello Sport, while Modric will undergo medicals post-tournament and enjoy a brief vacation, there’s already one significant condition he’s made clear to Milan’s board. The Croatian icon doesn’t want to arrive at San Siro alone.
Trusted ally: Modric’s request to Milan
The 39-year-old isn’t just bringing his experience, vision, and legendary status to Milan—he’s also bringing a recommendation. Sources close to the negotiations reveal that Modric has urged the Rossoneri hierarchy to consider signing a current Real Madrid midfielder he believes has been undervalued in Spain.
“He’s very good, he’ll succeed in Italy,” Modric reportedly told his new club’s executives, expressing his faith in his teammate’s ability to thrive in Serie A. While this Madrid player has struggled for consistent minutes at the Bernabeu, Modric sees his potential as untapped gold.
That player is Dani Ceballos, the 27-year-old Spanish midfielder who has spent much of the past season either on the bench or recovering from injury. Despite having renewed his contract with Real Madrid until 2027, Ceballos has been overshadowed by the likes of Tchouameni, Camavinga, Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Arda Güler—a midfield stacked with depth and youth.
And with the recent arrival of Argentine starlet Franco Mastantuono, Ceballos’ opportunities appear even more limited moving forward.
Real Madrid’s reported stance
Modric’s signing has been warmly received in Italy, not just for his global reputation but also for the leadership and winning mentality he brings. The Milan board, eager to integrate their new star into the club’s structure, has shown a willingness to meet some of his requests. Ceballos, it seems, is at the top of Modric’s wishlist.
Although Ceballos renewed his deal in Madrid, hoping for a more prominent role, “the reality has been different,” noted the Spanish media. “He has barely been considered by Ancelotti, and everything suggests Xabi Alonso won’t change that trend either.”
Real Madrid is reportedly not planning to block a move, especially if a respectable offer comes in. Milan, viewing the transfer favorably and seeing the player as endorsed by Modric, could strike a deal quickly.
