Former Wales international Gareth Bale has finally pulled back the curtain on his 2013 transfer saga, revealing why he chose Real Madrid over a lucrative move to Manchester United. Speaking on “The Overlap’s Stick to Football” podcast on Friday, March 6, 2026, the legendary winger confirmed that the Red Devils actually outbid the Spanish giants in an attempt to bring him to Old Trafford. “I did talk to United. They actually bid more than Real Madrid. I spoke with David Moyes. But my heart was set on Madrid anyway,” Bale revealed, explaining that his desire to play for Los Blancos outweighed the financial incentives offered by the Premier League sides.
The move was further complicated by a gentleman’s agreement between Bale and former Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy, who was notoriously reluctant to sell his star player to a direct domestic rival. Bale noted that while Manchester United’s offer was superior, Levy was adamant about not strengthening a competitor within the same league. “I had something in place with Daniel Levy, more of a gentleman’s agreement, and obviously, he didn’t want to sell me to a rival and strengthen another team. Levy made it hard, but he stayed true to his words in the end,” the five-time Champions League winner recalled. This behind-the-scenes deal essentially paved the way for his then-world-record transfer to the Santiago Bernabéu, despite the persistent interest from David Moyes during his brief tenure at United.
Bale’s reflection on his career comes as he enjoys retirement, looking back at a trophy-laden stint in Spain that many believe justified his decision to follow his heart rather than the higher paycheck.
His comments have reignited discussions among football fans about what might have been had he joined Manchester United during their post-Alex Ferguson transition period. By staying true to his dream of playing in Madrid, Bale cemented his legacy as one of Britain’s greatest exports, leaving United supporters to wonder about the “astronomical” impact he could have had in the Premier League.
