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Villas-Boas: Spurs in discussions over Modric exit

Luka Modric wants out of Tottenham © PA Photos

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Andre Villas-Boas has confirmed Tottenham are in "discussions" with "various clubs" over the expected departure of Luka Modric.

Modric has made it clear he would like to leave Spurs, citing a desperation to play Champions League football next season. It is anticipated that he will leave North London this summer.

Real Madrid are believed to head the queue for the Croatia international, while Manchester United and Chelsea are said to be monitoring the situation. However, Spurs will hold out for close to £40 million for their playmaker, who is the focal point of the midfield.

Villas-Boas appears resigned to losing Modric if the right money is offered, and he confirmed that more than one team is interested in the player.

"The interest that we have from various different clubs shows the importance of the player and what he's done for Tottenham," Villas-Boas said.

"It's fair to say that the club respects Luka's ambitions and his willingness to move on and he respects the fact that he's an important player for the club and can help us move forward.

"Ongoing discussions with these various clubs will continue until we reach an agreement which is sensible for each party."

Asked if that meant Modric would definitely be leaving White Hart Lane, Villas-Boas responded: "Not really. The willingness is there from the player, but a player of this importance is not easy to part company with.

"The chairman respects the values of the football club, and only with the right offer will we take that step."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.