Florentino Pérez has been following him closely, but has received a "no" for an answer. Real Madrid were interested in signing Martin Baturina, the latest star in Croatia who's been compared to his compatriot Luka Modric. At 21 years old he is shining and has aroused the interest of big teams, including Los Blancos. However, the merengue's proposal hasn't convinced him completely.
Sky Sports has revealed that Martin Baturina has rejected a firm offer from Real Madrid, which would've seen him sign with the team presided over by Florentino Pérez for five years. The reason for the refusal was clear: Baturina is not willing to spend two years on loan as Madrid had asked him to. If he were to leave, he wants to fight for a place in a top-level team.
Florentino's plan was to acquire Martin Baturina for at least five years, with the first two training him in Spain. What the Real Madrid president wanted was for him to adapt to LaLiga in another Spanish club and then have the opportunity at Santiago Bernabéu. However, the Croatian hasn't been convinced, rejecting the approach.
At the moment, the favorites to sign the new Modric, as he is nicknamed in his native Croatia, would be Bayern and Manchester United. Both are very interested in Baturina (21 years old).
Florentino Knows: Modric has Decided
Leaving Martin Baturina aside, it's time to talk about the real Modric. At 39, the Croatian midfielder continues to show that he is capable of remaining relevant in the elite, but with limited minutes.
Modric is clear about his future: He has decided. This will be his last contract with Real Madrid and there will be no possibility of renewing it. He needs to hang up his cleats and doesn't think about a near future as a professional, not even playing in a minor league.
The Croatian believes that he's already done everything in the elite and wants to retire as the "cap'n" of his beloved Real Madrid. This will be his last season and Florentino knows it. He wants peace, to dedicate himself to his family and start his future career away from the field.
Although Modric remains a key player in important matches, Florentino Pérez is already planning the future of the midfield without the veteran. The idea of signing a promising youngster to take his place is becoming a priority.
One option that was very popular was that of his compatriot Martin Baturina, but it seems that he will be ruled out.