Report: United shocked by Bale valuation

Manchester United have made an enquiry for Gareth Bale but were stunned by Tottenham’s 80-million euro asking price, according to a report.

Goal.com reports United chief executive David Gill has approached Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy about a deal for Bale, only to be told the 23-year-old would command a near world record fee if the Londoners were to sell him to an English Premier League rival.

Tottenham are instead focussing on talks with Bale’s advisors over a new five-year contract worth 175,000 euros per week, which would shatter the club’s wage structure.

The Welshman has been rewarded for his rise to stardom with new deals in each of the past three years.

According to Goal.com, Bale has told friends he is ready to reject a big move if Tottenham clinch a place in the Champions League.

Bale has also attracted interest from Real Madrid, Manchester City and Bayern Munich with his stunning displays this season, having scored 21 goals in all competitions.

He has previously expressed an interest in playing abroad and Real Madrid remain favourites to sign him, but they might have to wait until 2014 at the earliest to land their man.

Tottenham are increasingly confident of holding on to Bale for at least one more season and that is reflected in the price quoted to United.

Bale was a guest at United’s home defeat by Real Madrid in the Champions League last-16 earlier this month, but he will not push for a move away from White Hart Lane.

United’s interest in Bale again raises questions over the future of Wayne Rooney, who Sir Alex Ferguson insists will stay at Old Trafford despite reports he could be sold.