Modric becomes co-owner of Swansea

Real Madrid and Croatia midfielder Luka Modric has joined Swansea City as an investor and co-owner, the Championship outfit announced on Monday.

The 39-year-old Croatia captain has spent the past 13 seasons with Real Madrid, helping it win six Champions League titles, joining from Tottenham in 2012.

Swansea did not disclose how much Modric, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2018, had invested, but he expressed excitement at the chance to use his knowledge to help the Welsh club, which plays in the English Football League's second tier.

Modric said on the club's website: "This is an exciting opportunity. Swansea has a strong identity, an incredible fan base, and the ambition to compete at the highest level.

"Playing at the highest level, I believe I can provide my experience to the club.

"My goal is to support the club's growth in a positive way, and to help to build an exciting future."

Modric's immediate focus, though, is on Real Madrid's Champions League quarterfinal second leg at home to Arsenal on Wednesday, with his team trailing 3-0 on aggregate.

His contract at the Santiago Bernabeu is set to expire at the end of this season.

Modric's decision to invest in a soccer club follows that of teammates Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior doing likewise at Ligue 2 outfit Caen and Portuguese side FC Alverca, respectively.

"I am excited that Luka has come on board as an investor and co-owner," said Swansea chief executive Tom Gorringe.

"There is no better role model in the game for our players — from the academy, right through to the first team. His endorsement of our ambition, and his willingness to support us on our journey, will be instrumental, as we aim to continue to improve our results on, and off, the pitch."

Swansea is currently 12th in the Championship.

AFP