Real Madrid technical director Miguel Pardeza has welcomed the arrival of Asier Illarramendi.

Pardeza admitted they had to pay the midfielder's buyout clause to prise him away from Real Sociedad.

"Asier is a player that has really developed this season in Real Sociedad and in Europe. He's earned Real Madrid's trust thanks to that progression, and no one doubts his commitment, capacity and talent. I wish you all the luck in the world and I hope that you contribute to winning as many titles as possible.

"Real Madrid deposited the value of the buy-out clause value in the LFP by mutual agreement with Real Sociedad. That was the transaction."