Modric, 40, signs new AC Milan deal

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Luka Modric has agreed a one-year extension with AC Milan, keeping the Croatian midfielder at San Siro as he approaches his 41st birthday in September. Modric moved to Milan last summer after leaving Real Madrid, initially signing for one season with an option for a further year.

According to the BBC, Modric made 37 appearances and scored twice in his first Milan campaign. The club finished fifth in Serie A and exited the Coppa Italia at the last-16 stage. In comments released after the extension, Modric said he felt welcomed at Milan and was motivated to help the side respond after a season that fell short of expectations.

The renewal prolongs the career of one of football’s most decorated active players. Modric won the 2018 Ballon d’Or and, during 13 years at Real Madrid, collected six Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns. Before that, he played four seasons for Tottenham Hotspur, making 160 appearances in north London.

BBC Sport also notes that Modric recently featured at his fifth World Cup, where Croatia were eliminated by Portugal in the last 32. Since he became Croatia captain in 2016, the national side has reached a World Cup final and also finished third. At Milan, he is set to work under former Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim, who the report says replaced Massimiliano Allegri in June.