Manchester United Transfer News: Latest Rumours on Gareth Bale

Real Madrid star Gareth Bale reportedly has informed his club he is ready to leave Spain for Manchester United.

Diario Gol (h/t Luke Gardener of the Daily Star) noted the Wales international has set his sights on moving to Old Trafford and has told Los Blancos he will refuse to depart for any other club. He has also said he doesn't want to rejoin former team Tottenham Hotspur, as he plans his transfer back to the Premier League.

Per Diario Gol, Real president Florentino Perez wants in excess of £87 million for Bale, but United will only bid £52 million with add-ons. 

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Bale has suffered a torrid time in La Liga in recent months, as injuries continue to hamper his availability on a regular basis.

The 28-year-old has played only 23 games in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League this term, but he has scored 10 goals and added five assists in those appearances.

The Welshman's only issue is his health. At peak fitness he remains one of the most exciting forwards in the game. However, as he approaches his 30s, there is a huge risk for United in spending big money on a player who could sit on the treatment table for long periods.

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United manager Jose Mourinho is aware his side have lacked width since his arrival at the start of last season, and a fit and firing Bale would immediately provide an antidote for the problem.

The forward is extensively schooled in English football and would have a point to prove if his Spanish adventure comes to an end.

According to AS' Sergio Gomez, Real are "seriously considering" selling Bale leave as they restructure their starting XI after a poor defence of the Spanish title.

Real lie third in La Liga and 15 points behind leaders Barcelona, and manager Zinedine Zidane will be forced to bring in new talent if he remains in charge at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

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Mourinho has watched his team stall at times this season, but there has been tangible progress over the past 12 months.

United fans crave further world-class talent at the club, and if Bale comes for Mourinho's valuation, they could have a bargain on their hands.

The former Southampton man is still one of the best players in Europe, and it is only his injury record that has spoiled his reputation in Madrid.

The Red Devils need a winger who can beat the last man, but Bale brings added value with his ability to score a wide variety of goals.