Real Madrid midfielder Modric has revealed Abramovich tried to sign him for Chelsea

Real Madrid ace Luka Modric has revealed how close he came to joining Chelsea earlier in his career.

The Croatian, now at Real Madrid, was heavily linked with a move to the Blues after an excellent display in the middle under Harry Redknapp in the 2010-11 season - catching the eye in Spurs' first season in the Champions League.

"It was all very exciting," he wrote in Luka Modric: My Autobiography, serialised by the Guardian. "Twenty or so people, who seemed part of the security detail, met us at the boat. It was quick and well organised; just as we made ourselves comfortable on one of the luxury decks, Abramovich showed up.

"During our meeting on the Côte d'Azur, he left an impression of a relaxed, somewhat mysterious person. He wasn't beating around the bush and said: 'We know you are a quality player. I'd like you to sign for Chelsea'.

"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 Tottenham. I wanted to move to a more ambitious club.

"'Do you think Tottenham will resist your transfer? Are they going to put up a fight?' Abramovich asked. 'I think the negotiations are going to be tough', I replied, because I knew the clubs were not on good terms."