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AC Milan sports director Igli Tare confirmed he is working on a contract to sign Luka Modric when the club leaves Real Madrid.
It was announced in May that Modric would be leaving Madrid 13 years after the Club World Cup campaign ended.
The Croats made 593 appearances for Madrid in all competitions, scoring 43 goals, earning 95 assists at that point.
Last season, Modric played 2,863 minutes for Madrid, but his playing time was down, he still created a second chance (99).
Milan struggled to find his form last season, finishing eighth in Serie A and losing the Coppa Italia Final to Bologna, missing out on Champions League football.
And while Tare believes that lack of leadership in the team in the previous term has hindered the team, the addition of Modric could be a solution.
“We analyzed (what we lacked). One thing that was missing last year was clear leadership within the team,” he said.
“I may not know all the dynamics firsthand, but I think Modric’s signature is working on this exactly. He is a very influential figure in world football. I personally spoke to him.
“His arrival is key to being a reference point for a team that needs a player of that height. He’s not the only one. He’s adding one or two experienced players who can lead young talent.
“The first thing he asked was whether the team is built to win the league. He is a champion from Real Madrid with six Champions League titles.
“He wanted to come here and be the main character, he is essential in terms of mentality, personality and leadership.
“And it’s great for him, especially with the World Cup approaching and having a starring season.”
There is also speculation about a move around some of Milan’s main players, and while Bayern Munich is rumoured to be interested in Rafael Leo, there are rumours that Chelsea is interested in Mike Meignan.
Leao scored 12 goals in all competitions, with his 11 assists being Team High, coming from a 9.5 predicted assist (XA).
Meanwhile, Mainyan played all but two of Milan’s matches in 2024-25, maintaining 14 clean sheets.
“I think Leao is a real champion. There are very few players who can decide on their own matches today. He’s essential to our team and our projects,” says Tare.
“As with my coach, I had a serious discussion with him. I was delighted and surprised. You may think differently from the outside, but once you get to know him, you see a very competitive guy.
“He asked how the team will be strengthened. I see him as a key player in our project. He has everything to become a true champion. He has already shown a lot, but he hasn’t fully demonstrated his potential yet. We haven’t received it yet.
“Mainyan hasn’t left. He will be in Milan next season.
“We had an interest from the Premier League club, but we didn’t get an agreement. We know that Mainyan is a reference point on and off the pitch. We decided to rely on him and move forward together.”