Chelsea Transfer News: Coveted Star Luka Modric Would Thrive with Blues

Luka Modric still hasn't decided about his plans for next season as he prepares to represent Croatia in Euro 2012 next month. The only guarantee is that several elite clubs, including Chelsea, are eagerly awaiting word on his availability from Tottenham.

The Blues are joined by rivals Manchester United and Manchester City as teams who would have immense interest in the midfielder, according to Darren Lewis of the Daily Mirror. The Spurs have said they will attempt to keep all their key pieces, but Modric's decision could change that.

There were high hopes for Modric when he moved from Dinamo Zagreb to Tottenham four years ago. While he's been a stabilizing force in the midfield, the 26-year-old hasn't developed into the offensive weapon most people were expecting.

He had just four goals and four assists in Premier League play this season, which was one of the key reasons why the Spurs weren't able to keep pace with the league leaders.

It's unlikely Modric will ever become a consistent goal-scoring threat, but he has enough playmaking skills to rank much higher on the assist charts. For whatever reason, he just hasn't been able to maintain elite form for an extended period of time with Tottenham.

That's why a move to Chelsea would serve him well. The Blues lack firepower in the attacking third with only two players tallying more than six goals in league games. That means Modric would have more opportunity to join the attack.

He definitely has enough talent to make a bigger impact in that area, but just hasn't been in enough positions to succeed with the Spurs. Chelsea would likely give him a lot more freedom, allowing Modric to use his creativity.

Often a change of scenery is all a player needs to jump-start his career. The fact Modric is even considering a move shows he isn't entirely comfortable with Tottenham and that always has an effect on performance.

It's not the first time the Blues have had Modric on their radar, having previously tried to land him last summer. Going to a team that has had that type of sustained interest should give Modric the boost of confidence he needs to take him game to the next level.

Even though it seems like he's been around for quite a while, his best years should still be in front of him. That's why Chelsea must make a strong push if Modric becomes available; he will never again have more upside than he does right now.

It will be interesting to see how Modric performs in the tournament next month knowing he has a big decision to make when it ends. Regardless, the Blues would be a great fit if he leaves White Hart Lane.