It is not known how much Modric has invested in Swansea or what stake he has received – and that may never become clear if he simply adds to the US group that currently has a 77.4% share.

However, what the iconic Modric brings is worth more than just cash, with Swansea keen to capitalise on his global reach.

The club’s owners recently acknowledged they need to drive new income after financial losses and their statement confirming Modric’s involvement talked of “helping the club garner global attention”.

Indeed, his 37.2m-strong Instagram following – where he posted the club’s investment announcement – is bigger than that of most Premier League clubs, including Arsenal.

One source spoke of the deal helping put Swansea on the map as they seek a new point of difference in the ultra-competitive Championship, as well as the potential to attract better sponsorship and commercial deals.

Even the possibility of Modric’s involvement swaying some potential signings has been mooted, as well as the general lift the news has brought, with players at the club’s Fairwood training base said to be excited by talk of the unexpected new co-owner.

With a season to finish at Real – and no indication of his incredible playing career stopping just yet – Modric’s association is more likely to be remote than rooted in south Wales.

Given the way his shock transition from footballing inspiration to owner and investor has got people talking, that should not be an issue.