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"It's where he wants to be" - Bale in talks for Spurs return

Tottenham have entered talks aimed at resigning Gareth Bale.  The 31-year old is an outcast at R...



Soccer

"It's where he wants to be" - Bale in talks for Spurs return

Tottenham have entered talks aimed at resigning Gareth Bale. 

The 31-year old is an outcast at Real Madrid, where he's spent the past seven seasons.

Bale's fallen out of favour with current Bernabeu boss Zinedine Zidane, who would reportedly like rid of the Welshman before the transfer window closes.

Bale joined Real from Tottenham in September of 2013 for £77 million (€91m). During his time in the Spanish capital he's won four Champions Leagues and a pair of La Liga titles.

However, Zidane's reappointment as head coach in March of 2019 effectively sounded the death knell of Bale's career in Spain.

Earlier this month, Bale claimed that Real had blocked several attempts for him to leave the club.

Bale appeared set for a move to Chinese Super League club Jiangsu Suning a year ago, but the deal broke down unexpectedly.

"I tried to leave last year but they blocked everything at the last second," Bale said, "It was a project I was excited for but it didn't materialise.

"There have been other instances where we have tried to go but the club won't allow it or they've done something. It's down to the club.

"I want to play football, I am still motivated to play football, so I guess it's on the club.

"They are in control of everything. I have a contract, all I can do is carry on what I am doing and hopefully something comes up.

"I am only 31 still but I feel I am in great shape still and feel like I have a lot to give. We will see what happens."

What appears to be happening is a return to London.

Reports began to circulate on Tuesday evening that Tottenham were interested in bringing Bale back to North London.

"Gareth still loves Spurs," his agent Jonathan Barnett told BBC Sport Wales.

"We are talking [Spurs, Real and Bale's camp]. It's where he wants to be."

Bale has less than two years remaining on his Real Madrid contract, and it's believed they want a flat fee of £20million (€21.76m) to take him off their books.

The Independent report that Barnett has reduced his client's weekly wage requirements to a measly £250,000 (€272k) to make him more attractive to potential suitors.

Manchester United were also believed to be interested in Bale's signature, but only as a back-up should their move for Jadon Sancho come to nothing.

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Bale Gareth Bale Jonathan Barnett La Liga Real Real Madrid Spurs Tottenham Tottenham Hotspur Zinedine Zidane