Real Madrid manager Julen Lopetegui says Croatian midfield duo Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic are both happy at the club, even as speculation grows that one or both could leave this summer.

Modric has been linked with a move to Inter Milan, with recent reports suggesting the midfielder who has been one of Madrid’s best players over the last three to four seasons, is trying to force a transfer.

Meanwhile, Kovacic continues to be linked with a move away given concerns over his lack of playing time at Madrid. The midfielder’s path to the starting XI has been blocked by Modric, Toni Kroos, and Casemiro, and his reduced minutes impacted his international career as he was largely a bit-part player during Croatia’s run to the World Cup final this summer – a run that saw Modric win the Golden Ball at the tournament.

However, Madrid’s new manager insists the two are content.

“The level of excitement is as high as it can be, as it is with most of the players,” he said. “My understanding is that both are happy to be here.”

Madrid president Florentino Perez categorically ruled out a Modric sale last week, and Lopetegui echoed those thoughts on Tuesday before the team’s 2-1 pre-season win over Roma.

“The president was clear and unequivocal,” Lopetegui said. “We’re in no doubt at all that Modric is going to continue playing for us just as he has been.”

Spanish media had reported that Kovacic had gone on strike to push through a transfer, and rumours of a move to Chelsea have grown stronger. While it’s more likely that the 24-year-old leaves, Lopetegui remains happy with the player’s commitment.

“I’ve not seen that he’s gone on strike,” the Spaniard said. “He trained normally. Mateo is a member of the squad, and I am delighted with him.”