Former striker’s message to Bale: Go to Newcastle
FORMER Wales striker Dean Saunders has urged Gareth Bale to join Newcastle United.
Bale is a free agent after his Real Madrid contract expired, with his nine-year stay in Spain coming to an end.
He is currently mulling over his next move, with Cardiff City, of course, extremely keen onlookers.
There has been much debate over where Bale turns up next, and Saunders, speaking on talkSPORT, believes he should head to the “project” unfolding at St James’ Park.
They certainly wouldn’t have any problems offering the Wales captain a lucrative financial package despite Bale’s agent Jonathan Barnett stating his client’s next move wouldn’t be about money.
“If I could pick a club for him to go to now, I’d say sign for Newcastle,” Saunders said.
“They’ve got a project; they’re going in the right direction - he would slot in.
“The fans right now in Newcastle, because I’ve been there and I worked there - and I realise how much they love the club - right now they could sell 80,000 season tickets.”
Meanwhile, reports in France have shed light on what Cardiff are reportedly offering Bale to sign for them.
Earlier this month we reported that Bluebirds chairman Mehmet
Dalman was flying into the country to head up the negotiations for a deal to sign the Wales captain.
Now French outlet Foot Mercato have published an exclusive article stating Cardiff have offered Bale “a two-year contract with an option for an extra year”.
They state Bale “isn’t against” the idea of returning to Wales, and is “taking the time to reflect”.
Cardiff are “rather confident”, according to the same publication.
Bale is currently on holiday after his exploits with Wales and a decision will be made upon his return.
■ Former Cardiff loan man Sheyi Ojo has penned an emotional post as he prepared to leave Liverpool.
Ojo signed for the Reds as a 14-year-old in 2011, where he quickly became one of the brightest prospects at the club’s academy.
But he failed to break into the first team and spent various stints out on loan, including a season in south Wales.
He leaves Anfield having made 13 appearances in 11 years on Merseyside.
“I feel blessed to have played at this club,” wrote the 24-year-old.
“Many beautiful moments and memories but most importantly the unconditional support from the fans.
“I joined Liverpool when I was 14. Never could I imagine the journey it would take me on. Both on and off the pitch.
“From the come up in the academy to playing for the club at the highest level.
“The experiences along the way in Europe, tours. The setbacks and injuries, making mistakes. Learning patience. The physical and mental challenges of going on loan to different clubs.
“It’s a unique story and I’m grateful. Never stop dreaming...”