Real Madrid Signs Gareth Bale: Pays World Record Setting $132 Million Fee To Tottenham
Real Madrid and Gareth Bale have agreed to terms after the club paid Tottenham a world record fee. The buyout is believed to be valued at €100 million ($132 million USD).
The 24-year-old was targeted by Madrid all summer but had to convince the Spurs to sell off his services for a flat fee. The previous record was set when Madrid in 2009 paid £80 million to purchase Cristiano Ronaldo’s services from Manchester United.
According to sources, Bale has agreed to a six-year deal with Madrid.
Madrid is hoping to regain the Primera Division title, and, with Ronaldo and Bale in tandem, the club’s chances are looking good.
In a statement following the deal, Bale said on Tottenham’s official website:
“I have had six very happy years at Tottenham but it’s the right time to say goodbye. We’ve had some special times together over the years and I’ve loved every minute of it.”
Bale then added:
“I would like to thank everyone at the Club, the Chairman, Board, staff, coaches and players — and most of all the fantastic fans who I hope will understand this amazing career opportunity.”
Bale also told his Tottenham fans that he has long dreamed of joining Real Madrid, and this opportunity means he can finally fulfill his childhood dream.
Bale then thanked his former team for preparing him for Real Madrid play:
“I am well aware that I would not be at the level I am today were it not for firstly Southampton and then Spurs standing by me during some of the tougher times and affording me the environment and support they have. Tottenham will always be in my heart and I’m sure that this season will be a successful one for them. I am now looking forward to the next exciting chapter in my life, playing football for Real Madrid.”
Ini 2011 and 2013, Bale’s scored the PFA Footballer of the Year awards. During his final season at White Hart Lane, the footballer racked up 21 goals in 34 Premiere League matches.
Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas said all summer that he wanted to keep Gareth Bale with the club. Ultimately, his player’s heart was focused on Real Madrid.
In what now appears to be preparation for the player’s loss, the Spurs signed Nacer Chadli, Paulinho and Roberto Soldado over the summer. This week Erik Lamela has also joined from Roma and Christian Erkisen from Ajax.
Real Madrid worked quickly to secure a strong line this summer while also signing Asier Illarramendi, Isco, Daniel Carvajal, and Casemiro.
Gareth Bale becomes the first welshman to play for the club.
Are you ready for Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale to share the field as teammates?
