Chelsea boss José Mourinho has revealed that he tried to get Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric a few months ago. The Croatian international moved to Madrid for £ 35 million from Tottenham only two years ago. After a first season of numerous troubles, Modric has established himself as one of the first-team regulars at Madrid. He is vital in the counter-attacking style of football employed by manager Carlo Ancelotti. It was Mourinho who brought Modric to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Interestingly, Chelsea tried to get Modric even when he was at Tottenham. Before moving to Madrid, Chelsea are believed to have made a £ 40 million offer for the midfielder. After rejecting this transfer, Mourinho was able to get the player for £ 35 million next summer. Modric would have been the perfect replacement for Frank Lampard, but Mourinho says that he respects the decision of the 27-year-old. It is now understood that Modric has been the first choice to replace Lampard, but since the player wanted to stay at Madrid, Chelsea went on and signed Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona.
The 27-year-old comes from Barcelona for just £ 28 million and it has all the makes a great transfer. Fabregas, just like Modric, is well experienced when it comes to playing in the Premier League. “I called Modric only privately but he doesn’t want [to join] Chelsea. You know I really appreciate Luka Modric and his qualities. But he stays in Real Madrid,” said Mourinho. After moving to Madrid, the Croatian international has won several major trophies including the Champions League last season. It is understood that he will remain a key part of Carlo Ancelotti’s plan even after the Spanish club brought in the likes of Toni Kroos.
James Rodriguez has also been signed for more than £ 70 million.