Real Madrid warned against Luka Modric replacement plan as Xabi Alonso told he must avoid 'burning out' his young stars

Mijatovic has issued a strong warning to Los Blancos regarding the future composition of their squad as he criticised the notion of Arda Guler stepping into the void left by the new AC Milan signing.

The 20-year-old Turkey international featured in 28 La Liga games last season as his game time and overall impact were limited under coach Carlo Ancelotti last season, but he has been tipped to play a key role under new boss Xabi Alonso following his Club World Cup performances. The void left by a vastly decorated player like Modric may be too much for him, the ex-player and director suggested when speaking on Cadena SER.

He said: "Looking back on everything we've been through in recent years, we're lacking creative players, a lot of creativity in midfield. Putting Guler in Modric's position would be suicidal. When Modric came to Madrid and up until the game against Manchester [United], it seemed like he wasn't getting going. We have to avoid burning out the young players and give them time to show what they can do.”

He added: "When you have to renew the team and look for a new Modric, Toni Kroos, and Casemiro... you can't rebuild the team in one summer. The team has to make several important decisions this summer."

With Madrid reportedly prepared to sell Vinicius in the near future due to a breakdown in contract negotiations, Alonso has more on his mind than just Guler's ability to replace Modric, with the Spanish giants under pressure to battle Barcelona for the Spanish league title.