‘I almost signed for Chelsea when Roman Abramovich called me’ – Real Madrid star finally reveals failed Chelsea transfer
Chelsea were interested in acquiring Croatian star Luka Modric in 2011, but a deal fell through due to Spurs chairman Daniel Levi’s opposition.
Despite his intense desire to join Chelsea, Levi turned down any offer, and the veteran midfielder went on to sign for Real Madrid.
Luka Modric has now revealed why he was denied permission to join Chelsea in 2011.
“My feeling was that it was time for a move. I wanted to fight for trophies and win titles, and I felt this wouldn’t happen if I stayed at Spurs. I wanted to move to a more ambitious club and I wanted that move to Chelsea.
“Roman Abramovich wasn’t beating around the bush and said: ‘We know you are a quality player. I’d like you to sign for Chelsea.’ I had come to his yacht to talk, so it was evident I wished the same.
“But sadly it didn’t happen because Tottenham did not want me to go. As a player, sometimes you can’t understand this – you have something on your mind; you want to go; or you want to do something but you have to continue doing what you’re doing.”