Welsh attacker and former Tottenham Hotspur superstar Gareth Bale ‘is closer to leaving Real Madrid than at any time’ in order to make a sensational return to his former club, according to the player’s agent.
Speaking to Sky Sports [via Transfer Centre, 16/09/2020, 12:58pm], Bale’s agent Jonathan Barnett said:
There’s a long way to go on some issues, but without doubt, Gareth is closer to leaving Madrid than at any time in last 7 years… the deal is complicated, but there’s reason to believe a deal is close and things could move very quickly if discussions continue to go well.
The record-breaking Galáctico signing made a stunning switch to the Bernabeu in 2013 for a reported figure of between €91 million and €100 million.
Once a talismanic and energetic attacking threat, the prolific goal-scorer has since fallen severely down the Madrid pecking order after highly publicised disputes and tensions with both manager Zinedine Zidane and the Madrid hierarchy.
All parties appear keen to finalise a coveted return for the player after the Madrid board granted permission for Spurs to enter negotiations with Bale’s representatives. Since being granted permission, Spurs manager and long-term admirer Jose Mourinho has informed Bale that he views him as central to his plans if he makes a switch to north London.
At present, a loan deal appears to be the likeliest solution. Bale’s contractual situation is something of a stumbling block – he has two years remaining on a deal worth approximately £600,000 a week.
However, Real Madrid are keen to offload their problematic highest earner, which may open the groundwork for a permanent transfer.
Bale currently still remains in Madrid but is believed to be ‘excited’ at the progress being made in negotiations with all parties.
The BBC are reporting that Real Madrid may be willing to pay a proportion of the player’s wages in order to accommodate a move – though this would still likely leave Bale as a higher earner than key striker and England captain Harry Kane.
Manchester United are also interested in signing Bale on loan if their pursuit of Jadon Sancho falls through, though it appears Spurs are firmly leading the race for the Welshman’s signature.
