Highly-rated Inter Milan midfielder Mateo Kovacic has signed a contract extension until 2019.

The 20-year-old, who has netted seven times in all competitions for the Nerazzurri this season, believes that "beautiful things" await him for the remainder of his spell.

"I thank the president and the club for the opportunity," the Croatia international told reporters. "They are beautiful things and we hope to continue on this path. I am very happy for the renewal."

Meanwhile, Inter coach Roberto Mancini is confident that Kovacic, who joined from Dinamo Zagreb two years ago, can go on to become one of the game's great players.

"It's a great investment by Inter," he added. "I think he can improve a lot. He can become a great midfielder. We're happy to have him here."

Mancini's side sit 11th in Serie A.