Carlo Ancelotti hints there is a renewal offer on the table for Luka Modric

The Croatia international was heavily linked with a move away from Los Blancos last summer, but he ultimately penned a new contract until the end of the 2023-24 campaign.

Modric has made 27 appearances this season, contributing one goal and six assists in the process, but he has only started 15 times during the current campaign.

The 38-year-old is struggling for action even with Real Madrid having injury problems this season, and it is thought that he will make the decision to leave on a free transfer this summer.

Ancelotti has lavished praise on Modric's professionalism amid his struggles for football, and the Italian has suggested that like Toni Kroos, a decision on Modric's future will be made by the player himself.

"This issue of Modric I've talked a lot with you. With him once and that's enough. For a player who is used to playing, it's always harder for him to sit on the bench than others, I understand that," Ancelotti told reporters.

"Luka's behaviour is that of a professional and of a player who continues to fight to be on the pitch.

"In the dressing room, he continues to contribute the same as when he was playing more. He is very respected and is an example because every day he is ready to train and play at his best, so he continues to be a reference for the squad.

"What the club has done with the last legends is to let them decide. I spoke to Luka about it a month ago and everything is quite clear between the two of us."

Kroos is also out of contract at the end of June, and the German is yet to decide whether to sign an extension, but his situation is different to Modric's considering that he remains a regular starter under Ancelotti.

Modric made the move to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, and he has represented the club on 515 occasions, scoring 38 goals and registering 83 assists in the process.

Meanwhile, the Croatian has won three La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey crowns and five Champions League trophies during a highly-successful period.

Modric will be aiming to help Real Madrid lift La Liga and the Champions League this season before potentially seeking pastures new, with clubs from Saudi Arabia said to be showing a huge interest.