Andre Villas-Boas has said that want-a-way midfielder Luka Modric will not be sold until someone meets Tottenham’s £35million asking price.
Spanish champions Real Madrid are thought to be leading the chase for the 26-year-old midfielder with Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain reportedly among other potential suitors.
Quoted in several national newspapers, Villas-Boas said:
“There has been continuous interest from three different clubs in Luka.
“But it is important for Tottenham to hold onto their rights. His situation will continue as it is until the price is right.
“It’s important to understand his feelings. We have been speaking and I understand his point and he understands the club’s point.”
Modric first stated his desire to leave White Hart Lane last summer after the team failed to qualify for the Champions League. The north London club stood firm, but speculation has been rife again recently after Chelsea’s triumph in this year’s Champions League final meant Spurs once again missed out on Europe’s premier club competition.
Speaking after Wednesday night’s 2-0 pre-season friendly win at Stevenage, Villas-Boas added:
“Luka is an intelligent person and understands the club has to defend his value their values, rights and interests.
“It’s a difficult situation for the club but we have been co-operative by openly saying we are willing to listen to offers.
“But the offer has not been met to what the chairman [Daniel Levy] wants. If that is met there won’t be any problems.”
Considering that Man United offered close to £35million for Lucas and Chelsea have just spent £25million on Oscar, two talents that have yet to show that they can adjust to Premier League life, I am surprised that neither club has made an offer for Modric, who has proven that he can be a star in the Premier League.
With the signings that Chelsea have made this season though, and the glut of talent that Real Madrid has in midfield, Man United might be the one team out of the three where Modric is guaranteed a starting role.
