Luka Modric is destined remain an impossible dream for Inter after the Nerazzurri had begun exploring the possibility of signing the Real Madrid midfielder, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

Modric will turn 33 in September and is thought to be considering his options following the departures of team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo and head coach Zinedine Zidane, with some suggesting he would like a new challenge in the final stage of his career.

Inter began contemplating the idea of moving for Modric while they were negotiating with Atletico Madrid for the player’s Croatia team-mate Sime Vrsaljko, according to the Milan-based publication, and have since made contact with his agents.

However it remains extremely unlikely that they would be able to secure a deal, as they would not have the financial resources to get it done. Should Madrid ever decide to put Modric up for sale, they would have many clubs interested and would be capable of setting a very high price tag for the player, which would scupper any residual hopes of signing him on loan with an option to buy.