'I spoke with Moyes': Phenomenal star confirms Man United talks before Real Madrid transfer

Manchester United have long prided themselves on pursuing the very best talent whenever the transfer window opens.

Back in 2013, the Red Devils launched an ambitious attempt to lure Gareth Bale from Tottenham Hotspur after the Welshman dazzled as one of the most electrifying players in the Premier League.

However, Bale ultimately opted for a glamorous world-record £85 million move to Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid instead.

The former Wales international has now revealed that United made a genuine push to secure his signature during that summer.

Speaking on The Overlap, Bale admitted that discussions did take place with United.

He said: “I spoke with [then United manager] David Moyes, but my heart was set on Madrid anyway.

“I had something in place with Daniel Levy, more of a gentleman’s agreement. Because he didn’t want to sell me to a rival.

“I didn’t go down the wages route with United. I didn’t get that far. They offered more money to buy me, and a player [too], but it didn’t really get any legs to be honest no.”

Bale went on to score 106 goals and register 68 assists in 258 appearances before retiring in 2023.

His spell in Madrid proved hugely successful as he lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy five times along with three La Liga titles.

Looking back, many supporters can only wonder how differently United’s fortunes might have unfolded had Bale chosen Old Trafford.

His recent revelation confirms that the Manchester giants were prepared to pay a premium, but Levy had little interest in strengthening a domestic rival.

A similar situation emerged years later when Levy refused to sanction Harry Kane’s move to United while allowing him to join FC Bayern Munich instead.

With Levy no longer holding the same level of influence at Tottenham, it remains to be seen whether the club’s hierarchy would soften their stance if United come calling for one of their stars in the future.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .