Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric has said that he 'feels good physically' and is hoping to continue his career as a professional footballer until the age of 40.

Modric will turn 37 in September, and the Croatian's current deal at Bernabeu is due to expire at the end of June.

The midfielder has again been a vital player for Los Blancos this season, though, scoring twice and providing five assists in 26 appearances in all competitions.

Real Madrid are allegedly on the verge of signing Modric to a new deal until June 2023, and the veteran has said that he could still have another four years left as a player.

"I don't know when I'll keep playing until, maybe about 40, we'll see," Marca quotes Modric as saying. "I have to take it step-by-step, enjoy what I'm doing. I feel good physically, which is important, mentally as well. I'm at a huge club, the best club in the world without a doubt, and I'm working hard to keep my level as high as possible.

"We'll see how long it is, but talking about years is difficult. I'm almost 37 and I feel great to be honest. I've worked outside of Valdebebas and the club's facilities to find out where I can improve, where I can stay on top physically.

"In my time at Real Madrid I've achieved more than I expected or hoped for, because it's been almost 10 years now in this dream. It would be difficult to write down everything that's happened to me in these 10 years. Also, my relationship with the club is perfect, and with the fans, too.

"From the first moment, they have taken to me and trusted me, supported me, and that has helped me achieve everything I have and to keep going."

Modric has scored 30 goals and registered 66 assists in 417 appearances for Real Madrid since making the move from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012. body check tags ::