Real Madrid have reportedly identified Martin Odegaard as the long-term replacement for Luka Modric.
During the summer, Real allowed Odegaard to pen a season-long loan deal with Real Sociedad, holding the option to keep the Norwegian at the same club for a further 12 months.
However, having contributed four goals and five assists in 20 La Liga appearances, the 21-year-old is expected to return to the Bernabeu next season.
According to Marca, Los Blancos view the playmaker as the successor to Modric, who could be allowed to leave later in 2020.
With a need to reduce their wage bill, it would seemingly make financial sense for Real to use Odegaard over veteran Modric during the next campaign.
Modric, who turns 35 years of age in September and has less than 18 months less on his contract, has made 16 starts and 10 substitute outings this season.
