Report: Modric to stay as Milan target Fran Garcia leaves Real Madrid | OneFootball

Luka Modric looks likely to remain at Milan, according to Fabrizio Romano, and meanwhile, a defender the Rossoneri had previously considered completed a move elsewhere.

Romano reports, via MilanNews.it, that left-back Fran Garcia has joined Real Betis from Real Madrid for €3 million plus bonuses, with Madrid retaining a 50% sell-on.

Intriguingly, the influencer suggests the Spaniard could easily have ended up at San Siro under different circumstances.

Had the Rossoneri’s previous hierarchy stayed in place, sporting director Igli Tare, chief executive Giorgio Furlani and coach Massimiliano Allegri, and had the club reached the Champions League, Romano believes Fran Garcia would likely have signed for them, with discussions between the club and his representatives having reached a concrete, fairly advanced stage without ever being formally concluded.

MAY 24: Luka Modric looks on after the Serie A match at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 24, 2026. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Modric to stay at Milan despite summer of change

The change of management and direction shifted those plans, but one strand of Milan’s thinking has not altered.

Romano is clear that Modric’s situation stands apart: the veteran is regarded as a champion who transcends any single coach or set of executives, and his affection for the club is expected to see him continue in the red and black.

It offers a note of continuity amid a period of upheaval at Milan, with new leadership in place, Ruben Amorim now installed as coach and the squad being reshaped after a campaign that ended outside the Champions League places.