'Modric couldn't be happier at Real Madrid', says Butragueno

Emilio Butragueno believes a Croatia international playmaker who continues to generate plenty of exit rumours will be staying at the Santiago Bernabeu

Luka Modric “couldn’t be happier” at Real Madrid, claims Emilio Butragueno, with the Blancos eager to bring links to Inter to a close.

Ever since the Croatia international helped his country to the World Cup final, transfer talk has raged around the 32-year-old midfielder.

With Cristiano Ronaldo having already departed the Santiago Bernabeu for Italy, it has been suggested that Modric could do likewise.

Inter have made no secret of their interest in a man who claimed the Golden Ball at Russia 2018, but those in the Spanish capital are reluctant to part with another prized asset.

Butragueno, Real’s director of institutional relations, believes Modric’s services will be retained, telling Movistar+: “There is no issue with Modric.

“He couldn't be happier to continue playing for Real Madrid.”

Modric was named on the bench by Julen Lopetegui on Wednesday as Real suffered a 4-2 UEFA Super Cup defeat to arch-rivals Atletico Madrid.

He was introduced just before the hour mark but was unable to prevent the Blancos coming unstuck in extra-time.

With transfer windows still open across Europe, it appears likely that he will continue to generate exit talk over the coming days.

Inter have conceded that they are set to be frustrated in their efforts to secure his signature, but Modric’s agent has admitted that his client is keen on a switch to Serie A.

Marko Naletilic told Tuttosport ahead of a Super Cup clash: "Modric didn't just think about playing at Inter, he's really thrilled by the idea of having a big role with the Nerazzurri.

"I have the feeling that sooner or later, Modric will play in Italy: he grew up watching Serie A."