What’s the story?
Real Madrid superstar Luka Modric is all set for a shock move to Premier League champions Chelsea, according to a report in Spanish news outlet Diario Gol (Disclaimer: Diario Gol have been the source of many questionable rumours recently, so take this report with a pinch, nay, heaping of salt). The Croatian will reportedly consider his future if Los Blancos win La Liga, as he seeks a fresh challenge, and Chelsea are ready to play with a €55 million offer.
Also Read: 19 facts you did not know about Luka Modric
Previously...
Prior to moving to Real Madrid, Luka Modric had his heart set on joining Chelsea, with Tottenham Hotspur even turning down a £40m offer. Former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp had confirmed the offer, saying “"Forty million apparently was offered yesterday - whether it's true or not, that's what I heard. It's a big offer to turn down, that's for sure. I'm delighted the little man's still here and hopefully, he'll have a big season for us.”
The heart of the matter
The idea of Real Madrid being willing to sell Luka Modric seems far-fetched at first glance, but the report claims that Los Blancos President, Florentino Perez is keen on rejuvenating the Madrid squad with younger players. At the age of 31, Modric is not in the Madrid supremo’s plans, although he may face opposition from Zinedine Zidane, who considers Modric a crucial member of his first XI.
With only 1 goal and 4 assists in 37 games this season, Modric has not been as effective as he normally is, although the Croat has been playing a far more deeper role this year. However, the emergence of Isco has meant that Real Madrid can afford to let Modric go and make a profit on the £30 million they paid Tottenham for his services.
Also Read: 6 players who can replace Luka Modric at Real Madrid
Chelsea are fresh off of winning the Premier League and seek reinforcements in midfield as they take on Europe in the UEFA Champions League next season. 55 million seems quite a large sum for a 31-year-old midfielder, but Antonio Conte seeks a world-class midfielder alongside N’Golo Kante.
What next?
Modric has still never won La Liga, so if Real Madrid stumble, he may choose to stay and pursue that trophy – although the opposite scenario could see him seek a move back to London.
Author’s Take
Luka Modric is the beating heart of this Real Madrid side, and if Florentino Perez does decide to sell him, this could be a blunder of Claude Makelele / Xabi Alonso – esque proportions.
