The future of Luka Modric continues to be a major topic of conversation at San Siro as AC Milan enter a crucial summer of change. Although the experienced Croatian has been linked with a number of clubs, the arrival of Ruben Amorim has introduced a new element to his contract situation.

Ruben Amorim has placed Modric at the top of his priority list since taking charge at Milan. The Portuguese coach considers the veteran not merely a squad option but a key figure who can help shape the team’s culture and mentality going forward.

As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Amorim has already held a phone discussion with Modric, encouraging him to activate the one-year extension clause included in his current contract. The manager believes that despite his age, Modric’s technical brilliance and mental strength remain of the highest order.

Despite the disappointment of missing out on Champions League qualification, both the player and the club have shown a shared desire to continue their partnership. Modric has settled comfortably into life in Milan, a feeling strengthened by his family’s roots in the city, especially with his daughter Ema flourishing in the Milan Under-13 academy.

Initially, Modric was hesitant about renewing after the Rossoneri’s failure to qualify for next season’s Champions League. However, the opportunity to lead Milan’s Europa League campaign and the challenge of helping restore the club to Europe’s elite have reignited his enthusiasm.

If Modric completes the extension, his second season under Amorim will be markedly different from the defensive style implemented by former manager Max Allegri. Amorim’s system promotes an aggressive, high-intensity attacking approach, which will require careful management of the 40-year-old’s playing time.

The Portuguese tactician does not plan to overburden Modric with constant playing duties. With Milan facing a packed Serie A and Europa League schedule, Amorim intends to use Modric strategically, deploying his vision and experience in crucial moments to maximise his influence.

Modric’s statistics underline his importance. Turning 41 in September, he made 37 appearances across all competitions last season, starting 32 matches and playing a total of 2,864 minutes, during which he scored two goals and provided three assists.

At the World Cup, Modric started all four of Croatia’s matches — against England, Panama, Ghana, and Portugal — delivering an assist in the victory over Ghana before Croatia exited in the round of 32 after a 2-1 defeat to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.