Luka Modric has verbally agreed to join AC Milan, according to the club’s sporting director Igli Tare, marking a significant new chapter in the Croatian’s illustrious career after more than a decade of success at Real Madrid.
In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Tare confirmed the agreement and praised Modric’s mindset and desire to remain competitive at the highest level:
“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.”
Modric, who turns 40 in September, will leave Real Madrid after 13 glittering years in which he won 28 major trophies, including six Champions League titles. Going to Milan, Modric has prioritized regular playing time in order to maintain top fitness and form for the upcoming World Cup.
Tare revealed that Modric is already thinking about titles and legacy:
“The first question Luka asked me was: ‘Will we be a team built to win the championship?’ He has won six Champions Leagues and wants to be a star player from the start.”
According to ESPN, personal terms between Modric and Milan were agreed earlier this month, just before the Club World Cup kicked off in the U.S. A formal announcement and contract signing will follow the conclusion of the tournament.
The contract is expected to be a one-year deal with an option to extend for a second year. Modric will earn a net salary of approximately €3.5 million ($4 million) per season, with additional performance-based bonuses.
Tare also highlighted the deeper emotional connection between Modric and Milan:
“He is important for what he will convey in terms of mentality, leadership and professionalism. The fact that he is an AC Milan fan makes this story even more exciting, and it would be great for him to have a stellar season as at the end of the season is the World Cup.”