• Premier League

Real may bid for Spurs star Bale in the 'next weeks'

ESPN staff
June 4, 2013
Gareth Bale: Admired by Real Madrid © PA Photos
Enlarge

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has hinted at a summer swoop for Tottenham's Gareth Bale, describing the Welshman as "one of Europe's great players".

Bale has long been linked with La Liga, as Real Madrid and Barcelona are continually connected with the 23-year-old, and Perez's interview with Spanish TV programme Punto Pelota has added fuel to the speculation.

Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas is hopeful he can tie down his star on a long-term deal, but Perez has suggested Real are interested in making an offer this summer.

"Bale is one of Europe's great players and Real Madrid always likes great players," Perez told Punto Pelota.

"We have to improve our squad but we have to do it with tranquillity - and we'll do that in the next weeks."

Meanwhile, Perez - who is expected to be reinstated as Real president on Tuesday afternoon - has all but ruled out a Cristiano Ronaldo exit from the Santiago Bernabeu, insisting the Portugal international is happy to remain in Madrid.

"I believe Ronaldo will finish his career at Real Madrid," Perez confirmed.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close