GARETH BALE was eager to join Manchester United when informed of their interest earlier this summer, according to reports.
The Welshman was told by representatives that he was high up on the Red Devils’ list of Jadon Sancho alternatives.
But Bale, 31, grew impatient as United chiefs dawdled over their Sancho pursuit.
So when Tottenham made their proposal, ESPN claim that Bale decided to jump at the opportunity, rather than wait on developments at Old Trafford.
He then sealed his season-long loan move back to Spurs from Real Madrid.
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Having been in attendance at their recent home games against Newcastle United, Chelsea and Maccabi Haifa, Bale is nearing a return to full fitness.
The four-time Champions League winner has returned to light training as he steps up his recovery from a knee injury sustained on international duty.
And while he won’t feature against the Red Devils on Sunday, Spurs are hoping to have him available for the Premier League clash with West Ham on October 17.
United meanwhile, are still chasing Sancho as Monday’s transfer deadline looms.
They most recently had a £91million bid rejected for the England star.
And they could still ship out as many as five first-team players in order to help fund another move.
While Bale is no longer an option, United chiefs still have other options on their list of backups.
They have reportedly been in talks with Barcelona over a loan move for Ousmane Dembele.
Juventus star Douglas Costa has also been mentioned, while Fiorentina’s Federico Chiesa is also on their radar.
Ismaila Sarr featured in the Championship for Watford for the first time in the recent derby win over Luton Town – but could yet still be on his way to Old Trafford.
United’s Sancho pursuit could also have ramifications for a player already at the Theatre of Dreams.
Should the Red Devils successfully recruit a winger, Daniel James will be allowed to join Leeds United on a season-long loan deal.
