Chelsea still want Modric

Sky Sports News understands that Chelsea remain interested in signing Tottenham playmaker Luka Modric.

Blues understood to be keen on midfielder despite Mata deal

Sky Sports News understands that Chelsea remain interested in signing Tottenham playmaker Luka Modric. The Blues have failed with a couple of bids for the Croatian playmaker already this summer as Spurs insisted they were not prepared to sell one of their star players. Modric has made no secret of his desire to switch to Stamford Bridge after three years in North London with Tottenham, but he has earned praise from manager Harry Redknapp for maintaining a professional attitude through a period of uncertainty. With time running out until the transfer window closes it appeared Chelsea may miss out on the 25-year-old, especially after manager Andre Villas-Boas admitted earlier this week that he was unsure whether a third offer would be lodged. Valencia have also announced that a deal has been agreed with Chelsea for the sale of Juan Mata, with the Spain winger expected to undergo a medical in the English capital on Monday. However, it is understood that the Blues still want Modric as they look to bolster their attacking options before the season gets into full swing. Sky Sports News also understands that Modric will play no part in Tottenham's opening Premier League game of the campaign at Manchester United on Monday night.