World Football Gossip Roundup: Gareth Bale, Didier Drogba, Mario Balotelli

Big names and big clubs dominate this Sunday edition of the B/R World Football Gossip Roundup.

Gareth Bale has been linked to a move away from Tottenham Hotspur almost since his first day at the club. The rumors are back, and the money is reportedly huge this time.

Didier Drogba left the Premier League only this year, but he's being linked with a swift return to England—and a new club.

In addition to those stories, we also have updates on Mario Balotelli and Manchester United's quest to replace Sir Alex Ferguson. Read on for all the details.

Real Madrid to Make Bold Move for Gareth Bale?

Real Madrid might offer Fabio Coentrao to Tottenham Hotspur as part of a £50 million move for winger Gareth Bale, according to The Sun.

Bale, 23, signed a new four-year contract with Spurs in August. According to The Sun, the Welsh international is the top January transfer target of Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho.

Spurs manager Andre Villas-Boas reportedly tried to sign Coentrao when he managed Chelsea last year.

Liverpool to Make Loan Move for Didier Drogba?

Liverpool could make a loan move for former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba when the Chinese League season ends this week (via Daily Mirror).

Drogba, 34, signed with Shanghai Shenhua in the summer. Liverpool are short on attacking options, with Luis Suarez the only recognized striker currently fit in the first team.

AC Milan Interested in Mario Balotelli?

AC Milan are willing to sell star players in order to sign Manchester City and Italian international forward Mario Balotelli (via Metro).

Balotelli, 22, joined City from Inter Milan in 2007. AC Milan sold star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain in the summer.

Manchester United Target Pep Guardiola as Next Manager?

Manchester United want Pep Guardiola to replace manager Sir Alex Ferguson when Ferguson retires, according to Metro.

Ferguson has managed United since November 1986. He turns 71 in December and plans to retire in the coming years.

Guardiola, 41, led Barcelona to 14 titles in his four years as manager. He quit the club at the end of last season and is not currently managing a team.

Newcastle Ready to Replace Demba Ba?

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew will have money to replace striker Demba Ba if the Senegalese striker is sold in January, per The Daily Mirror.

Ba, 27, reportedly has a £7 million buyout clause in his contract. Liverpool are thought to be interested in signing him.

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