Gareth Bale’s agent has slammed the “joke” speculation which continues to surround his client, with Jonathan Barnett eager to point out that Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has “never said anything bad” about the Welshman.
Exit talk continues to rage in the Spanish capital when it comes to the future of a man who was once the most expensive player on the planet.
Bale has enjoyed considerable success with the Blancos, claiming four Champions League crowns, but has also endured struggles with form and fitness and seen questions asked of his value while working on a lucrative contract.
Each passing transfer window brings with it a fresh round of rumours, with moves having been mooted to every corner of the globe.
Interest from China and America has been given the attention it deserves, but little substance has been found in the seemingly endless links to teams in the Premier League.
Manchester United, Tottenham and Newcastle are all said to have been keen on returning the former Tottenham star to British shores at various intervals over the last few years.