Redknapp voices Modric Man City fear

Harry Redknapp admits Luka Modric could be distracted by talk of a move to Manchester City after Roberto Mancini declared his admiration for the Tottenham playmaker.

Redknapp had to fight hard to keep Modric at Tottenham last summer after Chelsea launched a series of big-money bids in an attempt to land the highly-rated midfielder.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy refused to sell the star, but other clubs may look to take advantage of the uncertainty surrounding Redknapp's future by bidding for the Croatian when the transfer window re-opens.

Chelsea and Manchester United have been linked with the player throughout the season, and City boss Mancini spoke of Modric in glowing terms, telling The Sun: "Luka Modric is an outstanding footballer, a great player...definitely one of the best in the Premier League."

Redknapp was forced to leave Modric out of his starting XI at the start of the season as he became distracted by Chelsea's advances, and the Spurs boss concedes it will be hard for the 26-year-old to ignore Mancini's apparent overtures given the riches on offer to the playing staff at the Etihad Stadium.

"I would think if someone is going to offer him £200,000 a week it could probably turn his head a little, yes!" Redknapp said.

Redknapp wants Modric to sign a new contract at Tottenham but the Croatian is yet to pen a new deal, and the uncertainty over whether the Spurs boss will be at White Hart Lane next year or in employment with England means Modric is unlikely to commit to anything soon.

Redknapp admits he is unaware of Modric's intentions but is adamant Spurs need to keep hold of him to continue the progress they have made over the last three years.

"Only Luka knows what he wants to do with his life," Redknapp said. We want to keep him here. We need to keep him. We love him. He is a fantastic player."