Chelsea’s long pursuit of the transfer of Luka Modric appears to be nearing its end, but not with the desired result.

Tottenham assistant manager Kevin Bond declared today that he expects Luka Modric to stay at White Hart Lane.

Two bids of £22 million and £27 million from the Blues have been rejected over the summer and it appears that Spurs will hold on to their man with Chairman Daniel Levy continuing to insist that Modric will not be departing.

Further doubt has been cast onto the transfer with new Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas conceding that the final decision as to whether an increased bid is be tabled will come down to owner Roman Abramovich.

Elsewhere, teenage sensation Romelu Lukaku has completed his move to Stamford Bridge from Anderlecht.

The 18-year-old joins for a reported £20 million and is available for Saturday’s home league match against West Brom.

Having already won nine caps for Belgium the youngster had gained strong interest from a host of top Premiership clubs but always favoured a move to Chelsea and described it as a dream come true.