Toni Kroos thinks he could retire at Real Madrid following new deal

Real Madrid star Toni Kroos has claimed he never considered leaving the Santiago Bernabeu, despite rumours linking him with the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United. The Germany international has suggested he wants to hang his boots up at the Champions League winners, having signed a deal to stay until the summer of 2022.

The 26-year-old left Bayern Munich for Real Madrid in the summer of 2014, following a successful World Cup campaign with Germany. He rapidly became a pivotal player for Carlo Ancelotti, and also helped Zinedine Zidane conquer the Champions League last year.

His impressive performances in both Spain and with his national side attracted the attention of Premier League sides, who had previous been linked with a move during his Bayern days.

The Sun were among reports in the summer claiming Pep Guardiola was seeking a reunion with the former Bayern player at Manchester City as part of his Etihad Stadium tactical revolution.

Report in Spain last month claimed the former Barcelona boss had not given up on Kroos, and was ready to battle Jose Mourinho for the player's signature. The new Manchester United manager allegedly wanted the German to partner Paul Pogba in midfield.

However, earlier this week Real Madrid ended all speculation, announcing an agreement for Kroos to extend his staying at Real Madrid until 2022. The deal, according to Bild, is worth €120m (£108m, $132m) over the next six seasons.

Asked in a press conference if he considered approaches from England before signing the new deal, Kroos replied: "As players we cannot defend ourselves against all of the rumours, that's why I didn't say anything in summer. I have been very happy at Real Madrid since day one. I have had two great years and I didn't consider any other option. Real Madrid thought the exact same and that's why we made an agreement".

"It is a decision that takes the future into consideration, both for myself and Real Madrid. It is a long-term contract and that means that both parties are happy and want to continue moving forward together. I have always felt the faith of the team, my teammates and the fans. I have always felt fantastic here".

The former Bayern star appeared to close the door to any potential suitors after claiming he may retire at Real Madrid.

"Real Madrid may well be the last team I play for," he said. "Those who know me know that when I sign a contract as long term as this, it is not something I take lightly. I spent a lot of time considering this and the end date is no coincidence. I don't see myself as the kind of player to still be playing at the age of 36, I want to go out at the highest level".