Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti insists he's had no indication from Luka Modric that he wants to leave in January.

It's been claimed Modric has told Ancelotti he will seek to leave when the market reopens unless he has handed better playing opportunities.

But Ancelotti said today: "I don't think Modric is considering leaving in January. He is still very important and we are happy with this.

"I speak with Modric every day and what Modric contributes in the locker room no one can contribute. For me it is very important when he doesn't play because he motivates his teammates. He doesn't like not playing and it affects him, I understand that.

"The young players we have give us a lot of energy. But you can play with veterans. I have won with a 40-year-old center back (Paolo Maldini) and with a 36-year-old midfielder (Modric)."