• Premier League

Mancini names Bale the top target of the summer

ESPNsoccernet staff
January 12, 2011
Roberto Mancini claims Tottenham would be half the team if they did not have Gareth Bale © PA Photos
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Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini believes Gareth Bale would be the most in-demand player around if Tottenham put him up for sale this summer.

Bale, 21, is said to have attracted interest from the likes of Real Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus since establishing himself in a more advanced position on the left flank for Spurs.

Despite persistent rumours over the player's future, Harry Redknapp has repeatedly rejected any suggestion Spurs would be tempted to cash in, but Mancini believes they could generate huge funds from the sale.

"Last year Bale had already proved his value but his career had not yet taken off," he told Tuttosport. "Now you would need a lot of money [to sign him]. He is a very expensive player.

"Certainly, Juve with Bale would gain a lot. Moreover, what is certain is that if Tottenham decides to put him on the market, Bale would be the strongest target in the summer.

"Perhaps he is the only player who is not a striker that can make a difference. Without him, Tottenham loses 50% of their potential."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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