Chelsea reportedly made a fresh attempt to sign Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Luka Modric earlier this summer.
The 26-year-old, who is expected to join Real Madrid next week, was the subject of high-profile interest from Stamford Bridge 12 months ago.
Last month, Spurs were credited with an interest in Blues pair Raul Meireles and Daniel Sturridge.
Upon becoming aware of Tottenham's interest in the duo, Chelsea attempted to negotiate a swap deal in a bid to land Modric, according to The Mirror.
Chelsea begin their Premier League campaign with a trip to Wigan Athletic later today.