After more than a decade at the heart of Real Madrid’s midfield, Luka Modric is preparing for a monumental move to Milan, as confirmed by the Serie A side’s sporting director, Igli Tare. The Croatian maestro, who will turn 40 in September, has verbally agreed to join the Rossoneri, signaling the start of a new chapter in his illustrious career.
While the soccer world speculates about the timing and impact of his arrival in Italy, a lingering question remains: Will Modric finish the Club World Cup with Real Madrid before the transfer is finalized?
In an exclusive interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Igli Tare shared details about the agreement and shed light on Modric’s motivation for making the switch to Serie A. “I spoke to him in person and saw a guy who is really eager to be competitive. His arrival is crucial for a group that needs players like him—leadership,” Tare said.
Modric’s decision to join Milan is driven by ambition, not nostalgia. Despite his age, the Ballon d’Or winner is still focused on titles and playing a leading role. Tare revealed that the Croat’s first question during negotiations was: “Will we be a team built to win the championship?”
This drive has always defined the Croatian midfielder, who has lifted 28 major trophies with Real Madrid, including six Champions League titles. Modric leaves behind a club where he became a legend, yet he seeks one last meaningful challenge in Italy—a league he once dreamed of conquering.
Why Milan, why now?
The verbal agreement between Modric and AC Milan was reportedly finalized in early June, just before the start of the Club World Cup in the United States. Modric will sign a one-year contract, with an option to extend it for another season. He is expected to earn a net salary of $4 million plus performance-based bonuses.
The formal announcement will come once Real Madrid concludes their Club World Cup campaign, with Modric currently participating under new coach Xabi Alonso. According to Fabrizio Romano, the deal is all but sealed: “Confirmed: Luka Modric will sign as new AC Milan player after Club World Cup. The verbal agreement is done and sealed with medical to follow in July.”
Beyond the financials and the soccer ambitions, the veteran’s move carries emotional weight. He has long been a self-professed fan of the Red and Blacks, and this transfer fulfills a personal dream. “The fact that he is an AC Milan fan makes this story even more exciting,” Tare explained. “It would be great for him to have a stellar season—especially with the World Cup at the end of the year.”
