Real Madrid Transfer News: Gareth Bale Talks Exit Rumours, Kylian Mbappe Move

Gareth Bale has dismissed rumours he considered leaving Real Madrid during the summer, with Manchester United reported to be interested, and said he would welcome AS Monaco starlet Kylian Mbappe if he joined the team.

The Wales international sat down for an interview with Marca's Pablo Polo (via Tim Hanlon) and discussed a wide variety of topics, including questions regarding his future.

When asked about United's reported interest, he said:

“The truth is that I do not read any of that. Logically I am a British player and I am always linked with a return home. It happened with Beckham, with other Englishmen who came to Spain. Nothing new. I am happy playing in Madrid, logically interest is interest, but if there has been nothing concrete, no offer, there is nothing to discuss."

Frank Augstein/Associated Press

Bale added that he's happy in the Spanish capital and signed a long-term contract with the club as a result.

The former Tottenham Hotspur star has struggled with injuries and bouts of inconsistent play since his move to Madrid in 2013. His first season with Los Blancos was exceptional, but since then, he's been unable to put together long stretches of excellence.

Despite those struggles, the 28-year-old has put up some impressive numbers in Spain, per Squawka Football:

Here's a look at some of his highlights, via La Liga's official Twitter account:

The emergence of Marco Asensio last season and the possible arrival of Mbappe could create a logjam in the attacking third, where Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have been the preferred options when healthy for years.

Despite the additional competition Mbappe would provide, Bale said he would welcome the youngster―even if he doesn't know just how good he is:

“I have not seen much, really. I do not see much football, but I know he is a good player and if he comes it is because he has had a great last season and I hope he helps the team if he comes."

The 18-year-old remains one of the most talked-about players of the summer, with plenty of speculation regarding his future. As shared by Marca (h/t B/R Football), Mbappe has done little to silence the rumour mill:

Mbappe still seems more likely to stay with Monaco for now, but there's plenty of time left in the transfer window, and Los Blancos could still make their move.