United are determined to land the Welshman this summer with his Spanish dream turning into a nightmare.
A close family member of Bale's told Express Sport that the 25-year-old is keen on joining up with Van Gaal's side ahead of next season.
Bale has been made a scapegoat for Real's disappointing season and has endured harsh criticism from the Madrid fans and press alike.
And according to the Daily Star, United are looking to talk Bernabeu president Florentino Perez into selling the man he paid Tottenham a world-record £85m for in 2013.
AP
Manchester United are looking to lure Gareth Bale to Old Trafford this summer
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It is claimed Perez is still undecided about what to do with Bale but United bosses - lead by executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward - are plotting talks with the Real chief.
Angel Di Maria, signed last summer for a British record £59.7m, could be offloaded as part of a United overhaul to make room for Bale.