Real Madrid were hit with the news that Toni Kroos will be retiring at the end of the season, but will look to soften the blow by retaining Luka Modric. News broke last week that the pair were close to a one-year extension, and now Marca say that the deal has been signed.

The agreement between Modric and President Florentino Perez has been reached, after Modric reportedly agreed to a significant wage cut and a reduced role in the team next season. The 38-year-old was digruntled at the start of the season after being dropped, but appears to have accepted that now.

Modric is aiming for the 2026 World Cup with Croatia, while Real Madrid have decided that with the loss of Kroos and probably captain Nacho Fernandez this summer, it would be beneficial to hold onto his leadership for another year.

Undoubtedly, Modric’s legacy is one of the greatest in the history of the club, and losing both him and Kroos in quick succession would be a blow to the club, fans and dressing room. Los Blancos had reportedly decided against offering Modric a new deal, but the exit of Kroos no doubt makes that decision much simpler for Perez.

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