Gareth Bale has revealed that Manchester United actually made a stronger financial move for him in 2013 before he eventually joined Real Madrid.
The Welsh winger was one of the most sought-after players in world football after his sensational final season with Tottenham.
But despite United’s interest, Bale says his mind was already made up.
Gareth Bale explains Manchester United talks before Real Madrid move
On The Overlap podcast, Bale shared a recollection of the transfer saga that eventually took him to the Santiago Bernabeu.
“I did talk to United [in 2013]. They actually bid more than Real Madrid. I spoke with David Moyes. But my heart was set on Madrid anyway. And I had something in place with Daniel Levy, more of a gentleman’s agreement,” Bale said.
He added: “And obviously, he didn’t want to sell me to a rival and strengthen another team. Levy made it hard, but he stayed true to his words in the end.”
Bale’s relationship with then-Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy played a major role in how the situation unfolded.
Although Levy made the negotiations difficult, Bale says the chairman honoured the understanding they had about his eventual move abroad.
That opened the door for Real Madrid to complete what was then a world record transfer.
Gareth Bale says Real Madrid move proved to be the right decision
Bale believes his decision to prioritise Real Madrid over Manchester United ultimately proved correct.
“I think I chose the right one [based on the] last 12 years. I didn’t go down the wages route with United. I didn’t get that far,” Bale continued.
He concluded: “They offered more money to buy me, and a player [too], but it didn’t really get any legs to be honest no.
“Once I spoke to Real Madrid, they reserved the number 11 jersey and spoke to various people.”
The move led to Bale becoming a central figure in one of Real Madrid’s most successful modern eras. During his time in Spain, he won multiple Champions League titles and scored decisive goals in several finals.
Looking back now, Bale clearly believes choosing Madrid over United shaped the most successful chapter of his career.
Read more:
