‘I was hoping to sign.’ ‘Roman Abramovich summoned me to his yacht,’ reveals the Real Madrid star about his aborted Chelsea transfer

Chelsea was 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 experienced midfielder went on to play for Real Madrid.

Luka Modric has finally revealed why he was denied permission to join Chelsea in 2011.

“I had the sensation it was time to make a change.” I wanted to compete for trophies and titles, and I didn’t think it would be possible if I stayed at Spurs. I wanted to join a more ambitious club, and Chelsea was my first choice.

“Roman Abramovich didn’t mince words when he remarked, ‘We know you’re a good player.’ I’d like you to join Chelsea as a player.’ I had come to his boat to speak with him, so it was obvious that I hoped for the same thing.

“However, Tottenham did not want me to move, therefore it did not happen.” As a player, you don’t always get it – you have something on your mind; you want to go, or you want to do something, but you have to keep doing what you’re doing.”