After over a decade of midfield mastery, Luka Modric’s chapter at Real Madrid is officially coming to a close this summer. The Croatian maestro will leave behind a legacy unmatched in the modern game — and now, Los Blancos are preparing for life without their midfield icon.
Real Madrid eye Enzo Fernandez and Exequiel Palacios
To fill the void left by Modric, Real Madrid are evaluating two key targets, both hailing from Argentina. According to Cadena SER, Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez remains high on the club’s wishlist. The 2022 World Cup winner was previously admired by Madrid before his blockbuster move to Stamford Bridge, and interest has not waned.
However, Chelsea are expected to fight tooth and nail to retain their €121m investment. Given this potential roadblock, Real Madrid are also considering a more familiar face to incoming manager Xabi Alonso — Exequiel Palacios.
Palacios played a crucial role under Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, helping guide the team to Bundesliga glory. The chemistry and tactical understanding between the two could be a major advantage, although Manchester City are reportedly keeping close tabs on the 25-year-old.
Summer rebuild continues at pace
Real Madrid have wasted no time making moves this summer. Dean Huijsen’s signing is already confirmed, Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to follow, and a deal for Alvaro Carreras is also close to being completed.
A central midfielder is next on the priority list, and ideally, the club would want their full squad in place before their U.S. preseason tour kicks off. That said, with Chelsea also taking part in the Club World Cup, any move for Enzo Fernandez might have to wait until July — leaving the door open for Palacios to step in sooner.
From a Real Madrid fan’s perspective:
Watching Modrić leave is going to hurt — there’s no doubt about it. He was pure class in every sense of the word. But the club must evolve. Enzo would be a spectacular addition, but if it doesn’t work out, I actually believe Palacios under Xabi Alonso could be a perfect match. He knows the system, he’s technically sharp, and he’s hungry. Let’s trust the process. Hala Madrid!