Gareth Bale won't be sold to Real Madrid, insists Andre Villas-Boas

Modric, who moved from Tottenham to Madrid for £30 million in the summer, has urged his former team-mate to make the same switch to the Spanish capital.

Bale recently admitted he would one day like to play abroad and Madrid have been heavily linked with a move for the winger as they look to kickstart a campaign in which they sit third in the league, some 11 points behind Barcelona.

Although Bale recently signed a new contract, there is a fear his head could be turned if Madrid’s players start to court the player in the same way Barcelona did with Cesc Fabregas in 2011.

Villas-Boas said earlier this week that he expected interest in Bale after the Welshman’s excellent form this season, but made it clear yesterday that the winger is not for sale.

“Obviously 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 football club, but it’s completely impossible (for Bale to leave),” the manager said.

“We have to protect our assets regarding our objectives. We have to qualify for the Champions League so in order for that to happen we need players that can make the difference. We are not looking to sell.”

Villas-Boas added: “He should focus more on his club than ours. He has to worry about (Madrid’s game against) Atletico Madrid this weekend as they are on top of him. And he has to worry about getting into the quarter-finals of the Champions League as well.”