5 midfielders who could replace Luka Modric at Real Madrid

3. Marco Verratti

Marco Verratti has been constantly linked with a move to Real Madrid in recent years

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti was touted to be one of the world’s best in his position by many, but he has not been able to live up to those impeccable standards. Though he has been an indispensable character at the French club, other former and current superstar players like Neymar, Edinson Cavani, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Angel Di Maria and Kylian Mbappe have all overshadowed his presence.

The Italian, who often goes under-the-radar at Paris Saint-Germain, could finally come onto his own at a mammoth club like Real Madrid. The 27-year-old still has his best days in front of him and has all the ability to assume Luka Modric’s role in Zidane’s midfield. Quick, agile and silky, Verratti is probably the best deep-lying playmaker in world football. His vision, quick reactions, dribbling skills and work-rate is next to none as he can play any role in a midfield three.

He has the ability to dictate matches with his long diagonals and short exchanges whilst leading the transition from defense to attack. A pivot in midfield, Verratti sees a lot of the ball during matches and his confidence in possession allows his teammates to take up attacking positions.

Marco Verratti has been an excellent servant to Paris Saint-Germain and has won everything that there is to win in France. However, he might now look to challenge himself with a move elsewhere in order to get his hands on the coveted Champions League trophy. Real Madrid will surely be keeping tabs on him as he just might just be a tailor-made replacement for Luka Modric.