Chelsea have been knocked back by Real Madrid in their pursuit to sign midfielder Luka Modric this summer, according to a report.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho, who brought Modric to the Spanish capital during his spell at the Santiago Bernabeu, is said to be keen on luring the Croatia international to Stamford Bridge during the close season.
However, according to Goal.com, the Blancos are reluctant to part with their creative 28-year-old after he has enjoyed perhaps his best season with the club since signing on for £33m from Tottenham Hotspur two years ago.
The former Spurs ace, whose contract expires in 2017, has racked up 37 starts for the Liga giants in all competitions this season.