Luka Modric has handed in a transfer request, Chelsea-Mad understands.
Modric, In South Africa with the Spurs' team for their pre-season matches, apparently verbally asked chairman Daniel Levy for a move yesterday.
Levy, it's believed dimmised the verbal request forcing Modric to put it in writing.
Spurs are expected to reject the request, ramping up the tension between them and Chelsea who have increased their offer for Modric to £27m.
This unedifying tale of brinkmanship where the only thing of concern to Spurs is how much money they will get from Chelsea should come to a head next week.