Tottenham playmaker Luka Modric has reportedly gone AWOL in a desperate bid to force through a move to Real Madrid.
Although Madrid are yet to finalise a fee with Tottenham for Modric, it is believed the Croatia international has already agreed personal terms and will sign a four-year deal with the Spanish giants subject to a price being agreed and him passing a medical.
New Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas is resigned to losing the 26-year-old, who is keen on joining a club playing in the Champions League next season, but Tottenham insist their valuation must be met.
And according to the Daily Mirror, Modric, in a bid to avoid a repeat of the transfer saga from twelve months ago when £40million move to Chelsea was blocked by chairman Daniel Levy, is trying to push through a move to the Bernabeu.
The Tottenham squad fly out to the United States on Saturday for a pre-season tour, with Modric facing disciplinary action if he fails to board the plane out of London.
Chelsea and Manchester United have both shown interest in Modric in recent weeks, but it is believed that he will join Jose Mourinho’s side should he get his move away from White Hart Lane.
It has been widely reported over the past few days that Tottenham are wanting £35m for Modric, but on Friday afternoon Press Association Sport reported that the north London club are actually looking for a fee closer to £40m.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez had on Friday morning been quoted as saying Los Blancos were only prepared to pay £27m, potentially hampering the chances of Modric getting his dream move to the Spanish capital.
Paris Saint-Germain have also shown interest in Modric, who new Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas earlier this week revealed has been the subject of interest from three clubs.
“There has been continuous interest from three different clubs,” said the former Chelsea boss.
“But it’s important for Tottenham to hold onto their rights. His situation will continue as it is until the price is right.
“Luka is an intelligent person and understands the club has to defend his value their values, rights and interests.
“But the offer has not been met to what the chairman wants. If that is met there won’t be any problems.”
