Explained: Every incorrect detail from Eldesmarque on Real Madrid’s pursuit of Tottenham star
Eldesmarque reported earlier in October that Real Madrid would pursue Christian Eriksen in January and were willing to offer Luka Modric in exchange, but Vital Spurs has detailed below why the story is likely false.
Report
‘The Croatian player has already been (keen) for two seasons to leave the club, and in this winter market it could be the definitive one.’
Truth
- AC Milan tried & failed to sign Modric over the summer and Milan’s chief officer Zvonimir Boban revealed it was because of the player’s willingness to stay at Real.
- Boban’s comments fly in the face of Eldesmarque’s claim that Modric wants to leave. He said: “Luka is a great Milanese player. He’s a great player but it’s difficult to sign him. He didn’t want to leave Madrid after a bad season.”
Report
‘Luka Modric could leave Real Madrid soon and could even be this January.’
Truth
- Considering Modric has been a regular in midfield when fit, making five appearances in all competitions and contributing two goals, it’s unlikely Real would sell such an influential player midseason.
Report
‘The president of Real Madrid has been offered Christian Eriksen (as) a barter (for) the Croatian player.’
Truth
- Modric is 34 years of age and earns around £9m-a-year at Real.
- He wouldn’t be a value-for-money signing for Tottenham despite his obvious quality, so it’s hard to see Spurs making an offer.
Report
‘It is (Real’s) last chance to sign a replacement for (Modric) without losing money.’
Truth
- Real can sign Eriksen on a per-contract deal when the January transfer window opens – they’ll just have to wait until his deal at Tottenham expires next summer before he can be registered.
- They don’t need to lose a player or any money by signing Eriksen months early.
Summary
Tottenham won’t sign an ageing and expensive Modric while Real can sign Eriksen on a pre-contract deal in January. The two players don’t need to swap clubs.