Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has acknowledged that Gareth Bale is no longer on his shortlist for the summer transfer window. The Real Madrid man endured an injury-hit campaign last term where he managed just nine goals across all competitions.
In spite of this, the Wales international is ‘happy’ with his stay at the Bernabeu and he is looking forward to a new season with Real Madrid, who are aiming to clinch a hat-trick of Champions League titles.
Jose Mourinho had earlier in the month suggested that a return for Cristiano Ronaldo would be ‘mission impossible‘ and he was asked whether the club face a similar task for Bale, for which he categorically ruled out a move.
“The same [as Ronaldo],” Mourinho said in his pre-match press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s friendly in California. “You have contacts and feelings, you understand things, and it was clear that Bale likes Madrid, the challenge and situation. They are in a very good situation now and I never felt a desire for him to leave, so why waste time on it? No.”
Mourinho is eager to add another top-class signing to his ranks before the start of the new campaign, but the club have not made any significant progress with their existing targets.
The Red Devils have been priced out of moves for both Nemanja Matic and Eric Dier, while it could be a similar case with Ivan Perisic with Inter Milan reluctant to lower their £48m valuation.
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