Salford sign Aussie ace
RED DEVILS’ BOOST IN RELEGATION BATTLE /PAGE 53
UNITED want to make Gareth Bale the next Galactico to leave Real Madrid.
Jose Mourinho and Ed Woodward believe the Welshman is the perfect addition to the Reds’ attack and prioritised a move for him ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Juventus in a £99m deal this week.
Talks over a transfer have reached an advanced stage - but Bale will have the ultimate say on whether he heads to Old Trafford.
The 28-year-old is seeking assurances over his position at the Bernabeu after growing frustrated about his playing time under Zinedine Zidane last season.
New Real coach Julen Lopetegui will need to convince him he is a big part of his plans in a summer when the Champions League winners are looking for their next Galactico.
Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Eden Hazard are all being considered by Real president Florentino Perez. It’s understood United opted against making a serious play for Ronaldo - even when it became clear he was prepared to leave Madrid. They were aware that a return to the Premier League was among a handful of options he was prepared to consider, along with France and Italy - but instead kept their focus on Bale.
Woodward has wanted to sign the former Tottenham winger ever since taking over United’s transfer strategy in 2013.
Mourinho is also a confirmed admirer and was eager to bring him to the club last summer.
United’s manager has identified the right side of his attack as in need of address this summer and is also interested in Chelsea’s Willian.