Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac revealed he'd like to see his compatriot and former teammate Luka Modric at the club.
At 40 years of age, the Croatian legend is in the twilight of his career but has displayed incredible longevity by continuing to deliver for club and country.
Last summer, he called time on Real Madrid and sought a fresh challenge with Serie A giants AC Milan, for whom the midfield phenom has appeared 33 times in the 2025-26 season.
He also remains a key figure in Croatia's international side, having played both their friendly games in March and now likely to get called up to Vatreni's World Cup squad for next month's showpiece too.
Kovac, who played with Modric for two years from 2006 to 2008 in the national team, revealed he'd like Modric to come to Dortmund when asked which of his former teammate he'd like to have in his BVB side:
""Luka Modric. I was captain when he joined the national team, and you could see straight away what an exceptional footballer he is.""said Kovac on Bild podcast Phrasenmäher
The six-time Champions League winner had signed just a one-year contract with the Rossoneri, which means his term ends next month and he'd be available for free if the parties do not renew it.
Currently injured, Kovac wished him a speedy recovery:
""I knew this question was coming. Luka is 40, and he's currently injured, so I just hope he recovers soon.""added the Croatian
Kovac and Modric were part of Croatia's 2006 FIFA World Cup as well as Euro 2008 and made 26 appearances together until the former's retirement in 2008.
Does the BVB really need Modric?
While the idea of having him in the squad is appealing for sure, Luka Modric is now 40 (he'd be 41 just a month into the 2026-27 season) and his transfer could go against Dortmund's traditional policy.
The club has always been known to have a relatively young squad and is now looking forward to rebranding it this season with several new young guns expected to arrive at the Signal Iduna Park.
A senior figure like Modric can be a source of learning for the young crop of Dortmund players, but as mentioned earlier, he doesn't have a lot of football left in him.
Plus, the Croatian star could majorly be used as an impact substitute - not a starter. The club understands this well and hence may not pursue him this summer even if he's available for free.
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