Kylian Mbappe’s arrival at Real Madrid could put Gareth Bale under pressure. Tottenham’s long term aspirations to re-sign the superstar could start moving.
Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale with Sergio Ramos
In recent days Gareth Bale has been linked with a Premier League return, with Spanish outlet Diario Gol suggesting he could be Manchester United bound.
Yet there is only one side who have his heart, former club Tottenham Hotspur – who unlike United are guaranteed to be playing Champions League football next season.
Bale’s future could hinge on Real Madrid’s ambitious summer plans to sign Monaco superstar Kylian Mbappe, who last night scored in the Champions League semi-final.
Kylian Mbappe in action in the UEFA Champions League
Marca report Real Madrid are desperate to sign Mbappe, and he is interested in making the switch.
A big move for the Frenchman would signal the break up of Real’s ‘BBC’ attacking trident of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale, which has terrorised defences since 2013.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s status is assured, but Bale and Benzema will find themselves under pressure, especially with the Welshman missing time this season through injury.
Gareth Bale being unveiled by Real Madrid in 2013
Bale is likely to stay this summer, but Mbappe’s arrival would be the first step towards his exit later down the line, potentially next summer if he is marginalised by the sensational teenager.
Next summer Tottenham will be preparing to move into their new stadium, and making a marquee purchase to bring Bale back is a dream scenario, for club and player.
It might sound fanciful, but consider that Spurs have the opportunity to sell Kyle Walker for £50 million this summer, and the North London club have already bagged more than half the fee they sold Bale for.
Daniel Levy could stash it away and make further income from player sales of the likes of Moussa Sissoko to supplement their spending.
As it stands Real have no intention of letting one of their key attacking trio leave. Next summer if Bale has slipped down the pecking order, there may be a chance.
Tottenham should be hoping Mbappe makes the switch and starts setting the wheels in motion.
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