End of an era – Three potential destinations for Luka Modric | OneFootball

It is expected to be an eventful summer this year for Real Madrid. The potential arrivals of Kylian Mbappe and Alphonso Davies have already unearthed an air of excitement among the fans.

Yet, amidst the buzz of newcomers, the possibility of some emotional farewells looms, which will likely add a poignant dimension to the season ahead.

Toni Kroos recently decided to renew his contract with Real Madrid for another season, but his long-time partner in midfield, Luka Modric, is slated to conclude a glorious chapter of his career in the Spanish capital.

Throughout the ongoing campaign, the 38-year-old Croatian international has seen a decline in playing time.

And since Modric’s contract is set to expire at the end of the current campaign, a departure seems imminent.

Nonetheless, Real Madrid fans will be eager to observe the legendary midfielder’s future ventures from afar, even if the badge on his chest may change.

In this piece, we take a look at three potential destinations for Luka Modric.

1. Tottenham Hotspur

Luka Modric with a masterclass performance vs Tottenham Hotsput in July 2019. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images for AUDI)

Before enjoying a trophy-laden career at Real Madrid, Modric plied his trade for Tottenham Hotspur.

The Ballon d’Or winner played 161 games over four seasons with Spurs, tallying 17 goals. He was even voted player of the year when the English side advanced to the Champions League quarterfinals in the 2010/11 season.

Now, as he enters the final stages of his career, a return to the club where it all kick-started cannot be ruled out.

The Premier League side are well-acquainted with the talents of Modric and would make do with his experience as they currently contest for a top-four position in the league.

This would not be the first time a Real Madrid icon would be going back to their roots. As a matter of fact, Gareth Bale similarly went out on loan to his former club Spurs after he was deemed disposable by the Real Madrid hierarchy.

However, in Modric’s case, the move would be expected to be permanent considering he would leave as a free agent.

2. MLS

In the event Modric chooses not to burden himself with the grueling demands of European football, Major League Soccer would perfectly float his boat.

In fact, reports have even suggested that the veteran midfielder is keen on a move to the USA, deeming it to be a better option than Saudi Arabia.

The recent trend of stars taking their talents to the MLS, most notably Inter Miami, could act as an incentive for Modric.

In fact, earlier this season, Inter Miami owner David Beckham was spotted on the Croatian island of Sipan with none other than Luka Modric.

At Inter Miami, the Champions League winner could play alongside the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets – players he once faced off against in Spain.

3. Dinamo Zagreb

Luka Modric with his homegrown team Dinamo Zagreb vs Arsenal in August 2006. (Photo by Friedemann Vogel/Bongarts/Getty Images)

After enrolling in the Dinamo Zagreb academy in 2001, Modric progressed to the senior team and made 95 appearances for the Croatian team before moving to Tottenham in 2008.

Interestingly enough, reports have previously claimed that the president of Dinamo Zagreb called the player and requested that he rejoins the team.

The Croatian side want him for next season and the player is evaluating the option.

Zagreb president Mirko Barisic publicly acknowledged the possibility, stating, “It would make sense for him to return to Dinamo at the end of his career, why not?

“Dinamo will certainly do everything in its power to make it happen. Now, whether that will be enough, we will see.”

Therefore Modric opting to rekindle the memories of his past and go back to his first-ever club cannot be ruled out.