The Saudi Pro League's next superstar? Luka Modric makes decision on Real Madrid future amid playing time struggles following Jude Bellingham breakthrough

According to Sport, Modric will leave Real Madrid when his contract expires at the end of the season. Over the summer he reportedly rejected a contract offer from a Saudi club worth £120 million a season ($149.5m). At 38 years old, he is expected to retire in the Saudi Pro League.

Modric signed a one-year contract at the end of last season as he believed he could still make a significant contribution at the elite level. However, the Croatian midfielder has started just five of Madrid's 17 matches in all competitions this term, with new signing Jude Bellingham becoming the focal point of midfield and attack. After 12 trophy-laden years at the Bernabeu, it looks like Modric is ready to move on.

A January departure has already been ruled out by Real Madrid's general director Jose Angel Sanchez. He recently said: "We have no open negotiations with the Saudi Arabian League for a possible departure in January nor any intention to sell him [Modric] at this time."

Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad are the Saudi Pro League sides linked with Modric. A move to the latter would see him rekindle his superb partnership with former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema. Before that though, Modric will be focussed on helping Madrid's bid to reclaim La Liga and Champions League crowns.