Luka Modric has reportedly turned down an offer worth millions of pounds to join Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and instead stay at Real Madrid.
The midfielder, 37, is approaching the twilight of his career, though he remains a key player for Los Blancos. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, the Croatian's future beyond the summer is unclear as suitors circle around him.
One of those admirers is thought to be Al-Nassr, who are embarking on an ambitious plan to lure top stars to Saudi Arabia. They have already wrapped up the signing of Ronaldo and are turning their eye to his former Santiago Bernabeu team-mate.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Modric has appeared on the wish list of Al-Nassr president Musalli Al-Muammar. The Saudi side's leadership have been in Madrid in recent days to explore potential moves for the midfielder, among others.
It is said that they are planning on bringing the former Tottenham playmaker to the Middle East in 2024 after securing the services of Ronaldo. In a bid to tempt him into leaving Madrid, Al-Nassr are understood to have offered a deal worth millions of pounds.
Modric's response to that offer has been 'cutting' though, with the midfielder flatly rejecting them. Instead, he wants to stay at the Bernabeu for at least one more season, giving Los Blancos his 'absolute priority'.
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That decision is said to be 'beyond doubt' despite the amount of money that Al-Nassr have offered him. Real Madrid are thought to be 'delighted' that he wants to stay, with a new deal not considered to be an issue, though he is yet to receive an offer.
Despite being knocked back, Al-Nassr have not been left discouraged, with Modric hinting he may be ready to leave the club in 18 months. The Saudi Pro League leaders may face competition from Major League Soccer, though.
American sides are also thought to have approached the Croatian about a potential move. Inter Miami are the frontrunners among MLS teams, with the 2026 World Cup - hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico - creating an appetite to bring in world-class players.
But Inter Miami have also been knocked back by Modric, who is happy with life in the Spanish capital. The Croatian is said to feel 'respected and loved' - feelings he is no hurry about giving up.
While their squad, particularly in midfield, has been ageing, Modric is still seen as a key player for the future by Real Madrid. He played a crucial role as they won the La Liga and Champions League double last season.
This season is also shaping up to be a successful one, with Los Blancos well in the La Liga title race, sitting behind leaders Barcelona on goal difference alone. Modric has already captained Croatia to an impressive third-place finish at the World Cup, proving he remains a top level star.
