Luka Modric stays grounded on Real Madrid future amid interest in Jude Bellingham

The five-time Champions League winner, who signed a one-year extension with the club at the end of last season, has made it clear that his future is not tied to the signing of Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham.

Modric, who joined Real Madrid 11 years ago, has won three Spanish league titles and is approaching the end of his contract with the La Liga club. However, the 37-year-old midfielder insists that he wants to continue playing for the Spanish champions.

"I want to carry on here, I want to stay, I feel good and I want to continue as part of Real Madrid," Modric said. "I'd like to deserve to stay on my own merit, not that someone gives it on a freebie."

Modric also expressed his desire to earn a contract extension based on his current performances, rather than his past achievements. He added, "If the club want to give me a contract then great but only on merit, only on what I do now, not what I have achieved and my history. Let's see what happens."

Modric dismissed reports suggesting his future at Real Madrid was dependent on the club signing Jude Bellingham or whether Toni Kroos would stay, stating that he is not annoyed by the speculation. "You don't have these conversations mid-season, I'm very relaxed," said the Croatia international.

As a final note, he insisted that nothing in his career was given to him on a freebie and he doesn't want it to happen now.

"I'd like to deserve to stay on my own merit, not that someone gives it on a freebie."

"I won't say anything about it as I've not spoken to the club yet."

The veteran midfielder remains focused on his game and will wait to see what the future holds.

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