Van Gaal fuels Bale speculation
Here's a possible early Christmas present for Manchester United supporters hoping for another superstar arriving at Old Trafford.
Louis van Gaal has fuelled speculation that the Red Devils are interested in Real Madrid star Gareth Bale.
The Dutchman was quizzed about news in Spain which suggested that United are preparing to launch a record-breaking £120 million ($247m) bid to bring the Welsh wizard back to the English Premier League.
While van Gaal refused to discuss any potential offer for the former Tottenham and Southampton man, the United boss did not quash the idea and deny it as most managers do.
The former Holland coach said: "I cannot discuss that with you.
"I discuss that with my CEO (Ed Woodward) and not with anyone of the media."
Long-term admirers
United have been long-term admirers of Bale.
Sir Alex Ferguson admitted to trying to secure a teenaged Bale's services from Southampton before his move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2007 while Real Madrid smashed the world transfer record to beat the Red Devils to the Welsh winger's signature last year at the start of David Moyes' doomed tenure as manager.
While Bale has been a hit in Spain, the possibility of him leaving the Santiago Bernabeu may not be a huge blow to the Madrid faithful.
According to a poll on Spanish news website AS.com, 54 per cent of more than 30,000 readers indicated that they would approve of Bale's departure to Man United if a £120m bid were to materialise.
Sources: Mail Online, AS.com
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