Transfer expert Guillem Balague has revealed that Tottenham inserted a buy-back clause when they sold Gareth Bale to Real Madrid for a world-record fee.
The attacker, 28, joined the Spanish giants for £86million million in the summer of 2013 and it has been previously reported that Spurs have first option to re-sign him.
In a Q&A on the Sky Sports website, Balague confirmed that the London giants have first option on Bale to place them in pole position in any future race for his signature.
“If there is any offer for Bale, Real have to contact Spurs and ask them if they want to match it,” Balague said. “So yes, there is a clause.”
Bale developed into one of the world’s outstanding attacker during his four year stint at White Hart Lane, scoring 26 goals and providing 15 assists in all competitions in a dazzling final season at the club.
Good move for Tottenham?
Mauricio Pochettino is on the record as being a firm admirer of Bale, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to represent Tottenham. Sure, he has suffered injury problems in the last two seasons, but his record at Real makes it clear that he is the real deal. At the Bernabeu, the Welshman has won the Champions League three times and the Spanish title, scoring 70 goals and supplying 55 assists in 159 matches. He would provide the final piece of the jigsaw in Pochettino’s young and vibrant team which has made Europe sit up and take notice with its stunning transformation.
This Is Futbol rating 9/10
Likely to happen?
The price would have to be right, and it would surely cost a £60million-plus fee for a bona fide superstar, even one who has suffered with a lot of injuries in recent times. Bale’s next move is almost certain to be back to the Premier League and he will be not short of offers. Spurs cannot match the financial resources of the Manchester clubs and Chelsea, but they can provide a grand stage, romance and a team on the up. Don’t rule this one out.
This Is Futbol rating 4/10