The Belgium international has never hidden his desire to one day make the move to Spain.
But Real still said no.
Bale was their man. Despite Manchester United circling, and the 29-year-old’s injury problems, Los Blancos opted to keep the faith.
But that decision has backfired.
And now, his days at the Bernabeu must surely be numbered.
Real Madrid star Gareth Bale has been snubbed for Barcelona (Image: GETTY)
Real Madrid star Gareth Bale has toiled since the summer (Image: GETTY)
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Real have chosen to field Lucas Vazquez and Vinicius Junior in attack, either side of Karim Benzema.
The dilemma now, however, is that who will take Bale?
Reports have claimed United, Chelsea and Tottenham are all eyeing the Wales international despite his nightmare season at the club so far.
But, realistically, only Spurs would have a reason for signing him.
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Man United at 'front of the queue' for Gareth Bale says pundit