AC Milan's new owners are preparing a surprise move for Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric.

Milan chairman Yonghong Li has identified the Croatia international as the player to build their new project around.

At 31, Modric is weighing up his options and if Real win the Champions League next month, the midfielder could be tempted to leave for a fresh challenge.

Don Balon says Milan are in contact with Modric's agents to register their interest, but will face stiff competition should he intimate a willingness to move on.

Bayern Munich coach Carlo Ancelotti, who worked with Modric at Real, sees the veteran as the perfect replacement for the retiring Xabi Alonso.