AC Milan has officially confirmed the signing of legendary Croatian midfielder Luka Modric on a one-year contract, with an option to extend until June 2027. The announcement, made Monday, marks a significant moment for both the Italian giants and the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner, who ends his historic 12-year tenure with Real Madrid.

Modric, who turns 40 this September, joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012 and went on to become one of the most decorated midfielders of his generation. His move to AC Milan follows weeks of speculation, which intensified after the Club World Cup, and was confirmed by head coach Massimiliano Allegri last week.

The Croatian captain completed medical tests in Milan earlier today and is expected to begin training with his new teammates in August.

“I’m very happy to be here to start a new chapter in my career,” Modric said in a welcome video shared on Milan’s official social media platforms. “A big hug to everyone.”

Modric’s arrival coincides with the return of coach Massimiliano Allegri, who previously led Milan to their last Serie A title in 2011. With the team’s first match scheduled for August 17 in the Italian Cup, fans will be eager to see how Modric’s experience and leadership shape Milan’s ambitions for the upcoming season.

The move underscores AC Milan’s strategy of blending experience with emerging talent as they aim to reclaim their position at the top of Italian and European football.