Luka Modric has warned Real Madrid teammate James Rodriguez that leaving the Spanish capital for a move to Manchester United would be a step down in the Colombian's career.
Midfielder Rodriguez has reportedly asked Los Blancos to be allowed to leave as he goes in search of more regular first-team football next season.
United are believed to be heading the queue for Rodriguez's signature with Chelsea also interested in luring him to the Premier League.
But former Spurs star Modric says leaving Real for any other club would be a step down.
"It's certainly not an easy decision to leave Madrid," he told Spanish newspaper Marca.
"When you leave here, nothing is the same. You're at the best club in the world, that's for sure, and from there you can only go down.
"Everyone will have their reasons. If I continue like this, I will do everything possible to stay, but things in football change fast."