Croatia's Luka Modric

Transfer news: Andre Villas-Boas knows how good Luka Modric is

Tottenham head coach Andre Villas-Boas has conceded that Luka Modric’s exit will be a blow to his side.

The Croatia star is reportedly set to join Real Madrid although Manchester United are keeping a watching brief and reports have suggested that he has refused to go on the pre-season tour of the USA.

“He’s good, very good,” Villas-Boas is quoted as saying by AS. “I tried to sign him last summer for Chelsea. He will be a big loss.

“He’s a player who can make the difference, who gives a lot of clarity to the play when the team needs it and who can play in several positions.”