Luka Modric has welcomed Croatia teammate Mateo Kovacic to Real Madrid.

The former Inter Milan midfielder made the move yesterday.

AS says Real president Florentino Perez first asked Modric about Kovacic last month.

Real met Inter in a friendly in China and Perez was anxious to learn the opinion of Modric on the young Nerazzurri midfielder.

"Presi," responded Modric, "Kovacic will be the Ballon d'Or in two years."

That was enough for Perez to 'OK' their move for the midfielder on the weekend.