In order to find a replacement for the legendary Luka Modric, Real Madrid has been searching the transfer market for suitable candidates over the past few seasons. Unfortunately, due to various reasons, they have not been able to secure their desired player.
Recently, according to the latest report from Italy's "La Gazzetta dello Sport," Real Madrid has found a very promising transfer target whose personal abilities make him a perfect candidate to succeed Modric. This individual is none other than the current midfield maestro of AC Milan, Frenkie de Jong.
De Jong, a rising star in the Netherlands national team, has just turned 26 and is at the peak of his career. The Dutch midfielder has quickly risen to prominence on the stage of AC Milan, impressing with his exceptional footwork, outstanding vision, and calm reading of the game. He has become an indispensable midfield commander for the team. In the tactical system of the Rossoneri, he serves not only as a link between the front and back lines but also as a key figure in both offensive initiation and defensive interception. It is thanks to his remarkable performances that Milan achieved commendable results in last season's Serie A and displayed strong competitiveness in European competitions.
Due to De Jong's outstanding performances at AC Milan, he has become a coveted target for many European giants. Real Madrid is one of the top clubs eager to sign him. According to "La Gazzetta dello Sport," De Jong's transfer value has soared to an astonishing 60 million euros, which attests to his immediate combat effectiveness in European football. However, despite such tempting offers, AC Milan has not chosen to let go easily. Instead, Milan is making every effort to retain De Jong. It is reported that AC Milan has extended De Jong's contract until 2029, with an option to renew until 2030, and his annual salary will be significantly increased to 3.5 million euros plus bonuses. This move undoubtedly demonstrates AC Milan's sincerity towards De Jong.
As a top club in European football, Real Madrid is renowned for its deep heritage and strong appeal. They have taken note of De Jong's remarkable abilities on the field and have already identified him as the ideal successor to Modric. Everyone knows that the meritorious captain Modric has won numerous honors for Real Madrid with his exceptional skills and leadership qualities. However, time waits for no man, and as Modric's age increases, his competitive state is gradually declining. Therefore, Real Madrid urgently needs to find a young midfielder who can take over Modric's position and continue to lead the team forward. In this regard, De Jong is undoubtedly an ideal candidate. Not only does he possess technical characteristics and playing styles similar to Modric, but he also has a younger age and greater potential for growth. If Real Madrid can successfully sign De Jong, they can ensure peace of mind in the midfield position for the next few years.
On one side, there is AC Milan's all-out effort to retain De Jong, while on the other, there is the limitless temptation of a top club. Now it remains to be seen what choice De Jong will make. It is believed that as long as Real Madrid offers attractive enough conditions, they will not worry about signing De Jong from AC Milan.