Reports: Real Madrid ready to sell midfield maestro in summer

What’s the story?

Real Madrid have plenty of midfield stars, but according to reports in Spanish daily Don Balon, Zidane and Perez have decided to sell Croatian superstar Luka Modric in the summer. The 31-year-old has been one of Madrid's key players in recent years, but recent injury worries and a dip in form have led to the Madrid hierarchy reaching this slightly surprising decision.

Los Blancos have not hesitated in moving on their ageing stars before, having recently let go of club stalwarts like Raul, Iker Casillas and even Xabi Alonso.

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Is Modric’s time at Real Madrid coming to an end?

The talented Croatian midfielder joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in a deal worth €30 million in 2012. After initially struggling to settle in, Modric soon established himself as one of the key players in the star-studded Madrid line-up, with many experts even considering him the most important player for Los Blancos.

This season, however, the Croatian has struggled with injury issues and his uncharacteristically poor performances in the last few matches might have influenced the Madrid board to sell him in the summer transfer window.

The heart of the matter

This summer promises to be a busy transfer window for Real Madrid. Zidane reportedly has a lot of faith in youngsters Isco and Kovacic. To make space for them in midfield and generate some revenue, the reports from Don Balon state that Perez has greenlighted the sale of both James Rodriguez and Luka Modric.

Still only 31, the Croatian midfield maestro is definitely among the best readers of the game and he could still command a hefty transfer fee. A number of top clubs across Europe will be interested if Modric is indeed available in the summer transfer window.

What’s next?

The primary focus of Luka Modric will be maintaining his fitness as matches come thick and fast for Real Madrid. The Croatian is definitely capable of influencing games and if he keeps himself fit, there is no doubt that his obvious quality will make a telling difference in Real Madrid’s fortunes this season.

Isco and Kovacic, on the other hand, will be looking to make the most of their opportunities and impress Zidane whenever they are given the chance, Both of them are talented, gifted and excellent midfielders and they will be determined to earn a regular starting spot next season.

Author’s take

While the influence of Modric might be reducing slightly as age catches up with him, there is no denying the fact that he is still one of the best midfielders in world football at the moment. Real Madrid will do well not to be hasty and hold onto their midfield maestro for at least another season.