Luka Modric deal: One-year AC Milan extension for 40-year-old Croatian

AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric – who turns 41 in September – has signed a one-year deal.

The Croatian joined Milan on a one-year deal with an option to extend after leaving Real Madrid last summer.

After 13 years at the Bernabeu, Modric scored two goals in 37 appearances for Milan in a season when they finished fifth in Serie A and only reached the last-16 stage of the Coppa Italia.

“I am thrilled to be at AC Milan, where you have made me feel welcome and loved from day one,” Modric said of his new contract.

“After a season below our expectations, the desire to return is immense. A new season and a new challenge await us – a project that I believe in and that inspires me.

“I’m ready to give everything again for this shirt and I’m very proud to wear these colors. Can’t wait to go back to the San Siro and feel your roar.”

Modric has just played in his fifth World Cup, where Croatia were knocked out in the last 32 by Portugal.

Since Modric became captain of the national team in 2016, Croatia have previously finished runners-up and finished third at the World Cup.

The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner has won six Champions League titles and four La Liga titles at Real. Previously, he made 160 appearances for Tottenham Hotspur in four years in North London.

He will play under former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim at Milan this season. He replaced Massimiliano Allegri, who was sacked in June.

In a statement, Milan said: “A key figure in the Rossoneri midfield since his arrival, Luca has brought his experience and quality to the service of the team, both on and off the pitch, with humility and great passion.

“One of the best and most iconic players in world football, the Croatian will continue his journey in a Rossoneri shirt with the ambition to reach new, important milestones.”