Real Madrid Transfer News: Louis Van Gaal Refuses to Talk on Gareth Bale Rumours

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal hasn't reached such an esteemed position in football management by openly discussing his every ploy, and his side's alleged pursuit of Gareth Bale is no different.

Real Madrid's winger has been linked with a mega-money move to Old Trafford in 2015, but Van Gaal kept a closed lid when quizzed on the Red Devils' chances of launching a move, per Rob Dawson of the Manchester Evening News:

It's been touted that United will smash the world transfer record next summer in their bid to bring Bale back to the Premier League.

Bleacher Report's Guillem Balague writes for Spanish newspaper AS that the Red Devils are eyeing up a £120 million offer, almost £40 million greater than the deal that took the forward to the Bernabeu in 2013.

Jon Super/Associated Press

It's of little surprise that Van Gaal refuses to divulge any information on his transfer plans moving forward, but what's intriguing is that the Dutchman also isn't quick to disregard the notion of Bale entirely.

Spanish writer Sergi Dominguez cites an AS poll in stating that a majority of Real Madrid fans would even prefer to see Bale sold in 2015, rather than hang onto his talent:

The Welshman has been in sensational form for Carlo Ancelotti's side since moving from White Hart Lane 18 months ago. He has netted seven goals in 12 La Liga appearances this season.

Bale recently added to his trophy cabinet—already containing Champions League and Copa del Rey crowns—with a triumph in the FIFA Club World Cup. After the win over San Lorenzo, he was quoted by the club's official Twitter account in proclaiming his happiness in Madrid:

A huge factor in any deal that might take Bale back to England rests with the future of Marco Reus. Marc Williams of the Daily Star this week reported that Ancelotti's side had won the race for the German international, who is alleged to have agreed a transfer for next summer.

At that time, the forward will see a release clause in his contract activate and drop his price down to £20 million, with Real standing to make £100 million from Bale's sale while adding a similarly terrifying talent in Reus.

United will certainly be receiving a stellar talent of their own if they manage to acquire Bale, but after shelling out £59.7 million for Angel Di Maria this past summer, it'll be clear the Red Devils aren't focusing on price tags, should this deal come to pass.

In any case, helmsman Van Gaal is eager not to give any details away regarding where his transfer priorities are focused at present, although many might argue defence and midfield are greater areas in need of improvement.