Andre Villas-Boas has claimed that it would be nearly "impossible" for Real Madrid to lure Gareth Bale from Tottenham Hotspur in January.
The Spurs manager acknowledged earlier this week that Bale would have plenty of high-profile admirers, with former Lillywhites midfielder Luka Modric urging the Welshman to join him at Los Blancos.
While Villas-Boas has admitted that Bale's Tottenham stay is likely dependent on Champions League qualification, he has stressed that the 23-year-old is very much enjoying life in North London.
The Portuguese also suggested that the matter is not Modric's business and that the Croat should 'focus on his own club'.
"It is extremely difficult if not impossible," said Villas-Boas. "Modric is aware of Gareth's performances because of his love for Tottenham and the fact that he is very connected with him and this whole club.
"The club has to protect our assets regarding our objectives. We have to qualify for the Champions League as Luka says and for that to happen we need the players that can make a difference.
"In the end we are not looking to sell. Modric now needs to worry about getting into the quarter finals of the Champions League and Atletico Madrid this weekend. He should focus more on his club."
Bale has scored seven goals in 18 Spurs appearances this season.
Joe Fish
