"New chapter" at AC Milan: Former world footballer Luka Modric finds new club

At almost 40 years old, his career isn't over yet: Luka Modric is continuing his career in Italy. The Croatian international is foregoing a lot of money for the opportunity to play for top club AC Milan.

There's no such thing as the end of a career: Football Methuselah Luka Modric is moving to top Italian club AC Milan. The 39-year-old Croatian signed a contract until 2026, with the option to extend for another year, the club announced. The 2018 World Player of the Year will wear the number 14. "I'm very happy to be here and to start a new chapter in my career," he said in a video posted on the club's social media.

There has been speculation for some time that Modric might move to Italy. According to reports, Milan's new sporting director, Igli Tare, traveled to Rijeka to meet the Croatian national team at the beginning of June to finalize the details. Modric played in the Club World Cup with Real Madrid in the USA, where he only appeared as a substitute.

Modric, who recently celebrated his departure from Real Madrid after 13 years and, among other achievements, six Champions League titles, is reportedly in line for a salary of €3.5 million per year. The midfielder turns 40 in September, and since his contract in Madrid expires, he will not cost a transfer fee. The prospect of working with new head coach Massimiliano Allegri is said to have convinced Modric to move to Italy.

With the 2018 World Cup runner-up on board, Milan hopes for a fresh start after a disappointing Serie A season, which saw the Rossoneri finish eighth, missing out on European qualification for the first time since 2016. Milan terminated the contract with Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao after the end of the season, and Allegri succeeded him.