United planning swoop for Bale

GARETH Bale has emerged as a major transfer target for Manchester United.

The Real Madrid star has endured a difficult second season in Spain and, following the team’s exit from the Champions League at the semi-final stage, could be set to leave the Bernabeu.

United have long been admirers of Bale and while the player went to Real for a world-record £85 million fee, he may be available for only half that.

A long-time admirer of United assistant boss Ryan Giggs, Bale would be open to a move to Old Trafford - but United could face competition from Manchester rivals City and London giants Chelsea, both of whom can compete with United in a bidding war.

United have the chance to strengthen a league top-three finish and automatic Champions League qualification against Arsenal on Sunday afternoon.

Win at Old Trafford and Arsenal will consign United to a Champions League qualifying tie early next season and enter the group phase automatically themselves.



CITY face a tough trip to Swansea – the side who beat Arsenal 1-0 on Monday night – on Sunday.

Manuel Pellegrini’s side are in pole position to finish second to champions Chelsea following a recent improvement in form, culminating in a 6-0 demolition of Queen’s Park Rangers.