Gareth Bale has shared insights about his notable transfer from Tottenham Hotspur to Real Madrid in 2013. This move, valued at £85 million, was a record at the time. Bale’s transition to Spain came after an impressive season where he scored 26 goals in 44 games for Spurs.
Manchester United’s Interest in Gareth Bale
During a recent appearance on the Stick to Football podcast, Bale confirmed that Manchester United made a higher bid than Real Madrid to secure his signature. At the time, United was under new management with David Moyes. Despite this interest, Bale ultimately chose to sign a six-year contract with Madrid in September 2013.
A Gentleman’s Agreement
Bale elaborated on his discussions with United, stating, “I did talk to United. They actually bid more than Madrid.” He indicated that his heart was set on a move to Madrid, primarily due to a gentlemen’s agreement he had with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy. This understanding prevented him from joining a rival club.
- Bale emphasized: “If a team did come in from Spain, Italy or wherever, I could potentially go.”
- The condition was also linked to Spurs’ failure to qualify for the Champions League that season.
Salary Discussions and Contract Negotiations
Despite United’s higher transfer bid, Bale never reached the contract negotiation stage with the club. He stated, “I didn’t go down the wages route.” Reports suggested Bale had a potential salary of £300,000 per week with Madrid, but discussions with United did not advance far enough to focus on financial details.
Shifts in Transfer Focus
Moyes, who left Manchester United after a brief tenure, revealed that the club aimed to sign several high-profile players during that summer, including Bale and Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona. Ultimately, United secured Marouane Fellaini from Everton for £27.5 million instead.
Overall, Bale’s decision to join Real Madrid over Manchester United remains a significant topic in football history, illustrating the complex dynamics of player transfers and managerial strategies during that era.
