Manchester United prepared to break bank again for Bale

Reports from the Manchester Evening News suggest that Gareth Bale is still wanted by Manchester United, who would be willing to bid in excess of £100m for the Welshman.

The Red Devils are believed to have cooled their interest in Antoine Griezmann this week, instead prioritising in a more traditional number 9 along with a winger capable of playing on either flank.

Bale has been credited as their number one target for the latter, with his future in Madrid still up in the air despite agreeing a new six-year deal earlier in the season.

It’s been a disappointing season for the 27-year-old, with injuries allowing the likes of Isco and Marco Asensio to flourish in his absence, with the former getting the nod in the Champions League final on Saturday - played in Bale’s hometown of Cardiff.

He played down any potential distraction of a possible move ahead of the game to BT Sport after Real Madrid’s historic 4-1 over Juventus, stating: “I prepared for the game like normal and as I said it’s been a difficult season, I understood the circumstances. I was happy I got on and happy to play a part.”

Bale started just 17 league games in the 2016/17 campaign, scoring a modest 7 goals for his lowest WhoScored.com rating since a move to the Bernabeu (7.49).