Barcelona have longer-term plan to sign Bale from Spurs
Published:Gareth Bale seems almost certain to still be at Tottenham for the start of the upcoming season, but there is a strong possibility that this will be his last campaign at White Hart Lane.
A host of clubs across Europe have previously shown an interest in Bale, including Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid, Italy’s Inter Milan and Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City from the Premier League.
Spurs will be in no rush to sell after tying Bale to a contract until 2015 and another impressive season will enhance his growing reputation as one of the brightest young prospects in world football.
However, like they have with Luka Modric this summer, Tottenham may face a challenging time next year as they attempt to stave off interest in one of their star assets.
Bale’s injury troubles in the second half of last season have caused a mini reluctance to make an offer, while if Tottenham fail to finish in the top four for the second season in succession, the Welsh international may be more eager to leave himself in order to secure Champions League football.
With Cesc Fabregas and Alexis Sanchez already on their radar this summer, Barcelona may not be financially able to bid for Bale aswell, but according to Goal.com, he is expected to be their leading transfer target this time next year.
Barcelona are said to be laying the groundwork for a £45m offer and see Bale as the perfect left-back signing to compliment Dani Alves on the other flank.
If Tottenham are to boost their chances of retaining Bale for the foreseeable future then they almost must finish in the top four this season, which is priced at 11/4 in the Premier League odds.
