Manchester United in advanced talks to sign Gareth Bale

Manchester United are in advanced talks with Real Madrid to sign Gareth Bale, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Bale has been heavily linked with a move away from Madrid after hinting he could leave the club in the immediate aftermath of last season’s Champions League final.

United have failed in their attempts to prise Bale away from Madrid in the past but believe they finally have a great chance of landing the former Tottenham star.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s shock departure from Madrid has only increased the likelihood Bale will stay on with the Spanish giants but Jose Mourinho’s side are still pursuing the Welshman.

The 28-year-old first wants clarification about his role at Madrid under new manager Julen Lopetegui before giving the green light to moving to Old Trafford.

Madrid are already in the market for a Galactico name following Ronaldo’s surprise departure and Bale’s exit would only heap further pressure on president Florentino Perez.

Bale has struggled to stay fit for prolonged periods in recent seasons and dropped dramatically down the pecking order under Zinedine Zidane last season.

The Wales international started the Champions League final on the bench but came on and won the game for Madrid, scoring two goals in a devastating 29-minute spell.