In today's market, the figures of 25 - rising to 30 mil - would be about right. This would be based on the 30 mil meaning we have secured PL and CL success; surely all reds would happily see the extra 5 mil paid for that! Taking into account that he is a proven PL player, and regarded to be amongst the finest midfielders around, then I would say these figures would be good business. And yes, I do believe we should go for him.
I understand where others have reservations regarding his goals and assists 'stats'. However, I think that stats like these can be a little myopic when assessing the contribution of a player like Modric. I actually agree with Robson on this one. Modric's game is not about regularly bursting into the box, or playing the final 'killer' ball. His game, as Robson says, is about dictating the tempo of the game; moving energetically around the centre, caressing long and short passes to team mates. He has exceptional control, happy to receive the ball when marked, then the balance and confidence to run with the ball, pushing the opposing midfield onto the back foot, thus creating space for his team mates, and also superb vision. Bear in mind, a sumptuous pass to a winger, who then crosses for a forward to score, does not go down as an assist. But was it any less important?
I think Modric is an exceptional player who would absolutely flourish here, Alongside a powerful partner, with the likes of Rooney, Kagawa Valencia and others ahead, I believe that Modric would be a revelation. A worthy successor to Scholes.
And those infamous 'stats' might even improve!
Paul, Whalley Range
I understand where others have reservations regarding his goals and assists 'stats'. However, I think that stats like these can be a little myopic when assessing the contribution of a player like Modric. I actually agree with Robson on this one. Modric's game is not about regularly bursting into the box, or playing the final 'killer' ball. His game, as Robson says, is about dictating the tempo of the game; moving energetically around the centre, caressing long and short passes to team mates. He has exceptional control, happy to receive the ball when marked, then the balance and confidence to run with the ball, pushing the opposing midfield onto the back foot, thus creating space for his team mates, and also superb vision. Bear in mind, a sumptuous pass to a winger, who then crosses for a forward to score, does not go down as an assist. But was it any less important?
I think Modric is an exceptional player who would absolutely flourish here, Alongside a powerful partner, with the likes of Rooney, Kagawa Valencia and others ahead, I believe that Modric would be a revelation. A worthy successor to Scholes.
And those infamous 'stats' might even improve!
Paul, Whalley Range