The Guardian reports that Real Madrid have no plans of selling Gareth Bale this summer after the departure of their attacking talisman, Cristiano Ronaldo for Juventus. New boss, Julen Lopetegui is expected to meet with the Welshman and inform him of the club’s future plans for him.
This should come as a massive loss for Manchester United, who have been eyeing up a deal for the prolific winger all summer. Bale himself was open to a move to the Premier League after being left out of Zinedine Zidane’s starting squad in the UEFA Champions League final against Liverpool. The 29-year-old did manage to silence his critics by coming on as a substitute and scoring one of the most spectacular acrobatic back volleys in the 64th minute to give his team the lead. He subsequently scored from long range to tie up the contest and help Madrid register their third consecutive European title.
The past three seasons have been difficult for Bale due to his consistent bouts on the sidelines with recurring injuries. At one point it looked like Zidane, Florentino Perez and the fans had all given up on their record signing and was ready to ship him out for younger replacements. However, with Zidane gone, Bale’s fortunes are destined to turn around at the Santiago Bernabeu and Jose Mourinho has to set up provisions for an alternate option.
The Red Devils are hell-bent on upstaging their bitter rivals Manchester City to the league title next season, after finishing the 2017/18 campaign 19 points behind them. Mourinho is ready to splash extraordinary amounts to get his man. If the deal would have gone through, Bale understandably would have been a starter on the right wing. Here are a few alternate options for Mourinho to consider.
Willian
Mourinho is willing to bring his former Chelsea signing to Old Trafford with Barcelona also reportedly expressing interest. His future with the Blues is uncertain under new boss, Maurizio Sarri and a move can see him become the perfect alternative for Gareth Bale at the Theatre of Dreams.
Leon Bailey
Since the prospects of a veteran can be ruled out, why not go for younger and rising talents such as this Bundesliga starlet? Bailey has previously been linked with United and could be available at a much cheaper rate than the Galactico winger.
Read More: Manchester United Gunning To Sign English League One Fullback: Does Mourinho Really Need Him?
Malcom
The 21-year-old plies his trade for Bordeaux and could be a very good attacking acquisition for the Red Devils this summer. He has bags of talent and skill under his boots and has the potential of turning into a superstar in the future.
