Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has admitted he considered cashing in on Luka Modric this summer.
Modric was heavily linked with a move away from White Hart Lane for the duration of the transfer window as the Blues saw three bids of £22m, £27m and £40m all rejected by Spurs.
And Redknapp know admits that he would have rather cashed in on the Croatian star admitting the rumours hampered his sides preparations for the new season.
"The Modric situation made life difficult," he said.
"Too many players wanted to leave and it didn't create the right kind of atmosphere heading into the new season.
"If someone doesn't want to play for your club, you move them on and bring in someone who does.
"I was like: if Luka (Modric) doesn't want to be here, take the £40m and we'll all move on.
"But I love him as a player and now he is here and it's all done, I'm delighted. Now he's got to get on and play."