Luka Modric: AC Milan hand new deal to 40-year-old midfielder

AC Milan have extended Luka Modric’s contract by a further year, keeping the Croatia captain at San Siro beyond his 40th birthday after his influential performances in Serie A and the Champions League.

The club confirmed the agreement on its official account on X, posting a picture of the midfielder alongside the message: “The future still bears his name… Luka’s story with the Rossoneri continues.”

Milan did not disclose any financial details of the new deal, but the decision reflects the club’s satisfaction with Modric’s impact since his arrival and their faith in his ability to perform at the highest level despite his age.

Key figure under Allegri

Modric joined AC Milan in the summer of 2025 on a free transfer from Real Madrid, where he had enjoyed a storied spell and established himself as one of the game’s leading midfielders.

Since moving to Italy, he has quickly become a central figure in coach Massimiliano Allegri’s line-up, cementing his status as one of the team’s indispensable players.

The Croatian has been praised within the club not only for his technical quality and consistency on the pitch, but also for the way he has shouldered leadership responsibilities in a relatively short time.

Milan view Modric as a key part of their plans for next season as they target the Serie A title and a strong run in the Champions League, banking on his know-how from years of competing for major honours in Europe.

Leadership on and off the pitch

Club figures see Modric as one of the most influential voices in the dressing room, describing him as a reference point for younger players and a standard-setter in training and matches.

His presence has been highlighted as especially important for the development of Milan’s emerging talents, who look to him for guidance on and off the field.

The decision to offer a new deal is being framed internally as a reward for his sustained high level of performance and his leadership role, with Milan confident that his experience can help drive the squad through another demanding campaign.

While no timeframe beyond “an additional season” was specified, the club’s announcement underlines their belief that Modric remains central to their ambitions, even as he continues to defy expectations associated with a player in his forties.

The renewal ensures that one of European football’s most decorated midfielders will continue to wear the Rossoneri shirt, as Milan attempt to convert his enduring class and experience into domestic and continental success in the coming year.