Real Madrid Transfer News: Latest on Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema Rumours

Gareth Bale has refuted rumours he may be seeking a transfer away from Real Madrid during the summer window, telling the Sun's Phil Cadden he's fully settled in the Spanish capital and doesn't want to leave.

When asked whether he wants to stay with Los Blancos, he said: “Of course, yes. I’m a Real Madrid player and I’ll carry on as normal. I am enjoying it and hopefully I can continue to. I feel settled. I’m looking forward now to playing and winning more trophies. My goal is to keep improving, performing and to win as many titles as I can.”

The 25-year-old has been linked with a move back to the Premier League after a disappointing second season with Los Blancos, in which he often vanished during big matches and failed to live up to his £86 million price tag.

Manchester United are seen as the most likely destination, particularly given the rumours regarding David De Gea and his potential move to Madrid, per Jeremy Cross of the Daily Star (via ESPN.co.uk):

There is a bit of uncertainty surrounding the current Real side given the arrival of new manager Rafael Benitez, but Bale should be among a core group of players who won't be moved unless they specifically ask for a transfer. Despite the disappointing season, he remains one of the world's top talents, as evidenced by his price tag.

He's always been a productive scorer, has world-class athleticism and was held back by injuries in 2014-15; there's no reason to believe he can't bounce back next year.

As reported by talkSPORT's Anton Stanley, former Real Madrid assistant coach Paul Clement believes the Wales international has to stay in Madrid for the time being:

Benitez relied heavily on his wingers during his final season with Napoli, particularly Jose Callejon and Dries Mertens, so Bale should see plenty of the ball next season. He'll have the chance to redeem himself, and while the Madrid fans are a fickle crowd, they'll quickly hold him in their arms again if he starts scoring goals on a consistent basis.

If things don't work out next season, the Welshman should consider a change of scenery, but right now, it seems too early to give up on his dream of becoming a Real Madrid legend.

Manchester United Prepare Karim Benzema Bid

Manu Fernandez/Associated Press

It appears the Red Devils are desperate to add one of Real's biggest stars during the summer, and according to the Daily Mail's Rob Shepherd, they will launch a £30 million bid for striker Karim Benzema if they can't convince Bale to move to Old Trafford.

The France international had another fine season for Los Blancos, but according to AS, Benitez plans to move Cristiano Ronaldo into a central role next season, casting doubt on Benzema's future:

Spanish football insider Rafael Hernandez wonders whether the striker will move during the summer:

The 27-year-old was a perfect fit in former manager Carlo Ancelotti's system, which made full use of his ability as a passer and a target for balls over the top of the defence. Benzema has never been a pure scorer, but his versatility in the attacking third opens up tons of space for his team-mates.

However, he does a terrific job of putting the ball in the net for a striker whose main job isn't to score, however, via OptaFranz:

Benzema would be a brilliant signing for United, who need a striker of his calibre, and while Real would rather not see the Frenchman leave the club, you have to wonder whether he would agree to a role as a back-up to Ronaldo moving forward.

Once again, a potential deal for De Gea comes into play. If Real are desperate to sign the Spanish goalkeeper and don't plan on using Benzema as a starter, it makes too much sense not to work out some kind of deal with the Mancunians.

Ronaldo certainly has the quality to play as a striker, although he's had a sensational career as a winger and still has all of the physical tools required to be one of the world's best at the position.

But if Benitez wants the Portugal international in a central role, Benzema will have to think long and hard about his future. He's had a fantastic run with Los Blancos, but he's too good to sit on the bench in the Spanish capital.

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