Modric eyes Real Madrid extension beyond 40th birthday

Real Madrid veteran Luka Modric has expressed his desire to extend his stay at the club beyond next season, potentially playing past his 40th birthday.

The 39-year-old midfielder rolled back the years with a stunning goal in Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Girona, further strengthening his legendary status at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Despite a reduced role in recent months, Modric remains a key figure in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad, both as club captain and a respected dressing room leader.

Ancelotti hailed him as a “gift to football” after the Girona match and suggested the decision on his future should be left to him.

According to Relevo, Modric has already made up his mind to sign a contract renewal, earlier than usual.

The Croatian has been accepting one-year extensions per Real Madrid’s policy for players over 30, and he is reportedly open to another pay cut to remain at the club.

The final decision now rests with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, who is keen to keep Modric but will evaluate whether the renewal benefits all parties.

No official announcement is expected until the final weeks of the season.

With 574 appearances for Real Madrid since joining from Tottenham in 2012, Modric is currently 10th on the club’s all-time list.

If he stays, he could surpass the 600-game milestone.

Madrid will return to action on February 26 when they face Real Sociedad in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final.