Manchester United have long prided themselves on pursuing the very best talent whenever the transfer window opens.

Back in 2013, the Red Devils launched an ambitious attempt to lure Gareth Bale from Tottenham Hotspur after the Welshman dazzled as one of the most electrifying players in the Premier League.

However, Bale ultimately opted for a glamorous world-record £85 million move to Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid instead.

The former Wales international has now revealed that United made a genuine push to secure his signature during that summer.

Speaking on The Overlap, Bale admitted that discussions did take place with United.

He said: “I spoke with [then United manager] David Moyes, but my heart was set on Madrid anyway.

“I had something in place with Daniel Levy, more of a gentleman’s agreement. Because he didn’t want to sell me to a rival.

“I didn’t go down the wages route with United. I didn’t get that far. They offered more money to buy me, and a player [too], but it didn’t really get any legs to be honest no.”

Bale went on to score 106 goals and register 68 assists in 258 appearances before retiring in 2023.