Transfer News: Real Madrid insist on Gareth Bale

Jul 30, 2013
Transfer News: Real Madrid insist on Gareth Bale
Gareth Bale would be making a mistake by leaving Tottenham for Real Madrid this summer, according to David Pleat, a former Spurs manager. The player, aged 24, has indicated he would like to be allowed to speak to the Real Madrid representatives. Former Tottenham manager Pleat thinks it would take a fee of £100m to even tempt the Spurs to sell the Welsh Wizard. "I think he's a little bit young to go abroad. I doubt he'd find it easy. Many have failed when they have moved overseas," Pleat said. "One or two have succeeded, but not many. Most have had a difficult time. I think he is young to go, but he might feel that, with his partner and baby, it will be a new start for him. I think it might be better if he stayed, continued to work and maybe next summer leave if that is his wish," Pleat added. Former England striker Michael Owen is an example of a good player that failed abroad, he spent a year at Real Madrid after leaving Liverpool in 2004, before returning to England with Newcastle. Owen said: "Any player going from over here to Spain, it's a lot different to what you imagine. It's a slow pace of life. I was in a hotel for six months with a young child. It's very difficult. You need to get a lot of things in order off the pitch. I'd be surprised if he went this year." Bale joined Tottenham from Southampton in May 2007 and signed a new four-year contract in June 2012. Last season was his best for the club as he scored 26 goals. Manager Andre Villas-Boas stated this summer that Gareth Bale is not for sale and says talks about a new contract are ongoing. Real Madrid have not yet submitted a formal offer for Bale, but Pleat, who managed Tottenham from 1986 until 1987, expects Spurs to resist an approach from the Spanish giants. "Regardless of whether the player wants to leave, the club are in the driving seat," said Pleat. "If a club have strong and brave leadership, which they have at Tottenham, they have to resist any formal offer that comes in, which Tottenham are determined to do. Tottenham have been very firm. If something shattering, like £100m, is put on the table, then I think even the resistance of Daniel Levy may have to give in, but I think even supporters would understand it for that money." You can bet on Gareth Bale's future at Bet365, they are offering odds on which would be his club come September 3rd: Real Madrid - 1/2 Tottenham - 6/4 Manchester United - 14/1 PSG - 33/1 Monaco - 40/1
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