Tottenham Hotspur have proven to be consistent in the Premier League under Mauricio Pochettino. Spurs are primed to finish in the Champions League places for the third year on the trot.
Yet, the Lilly Whites have stuttered on the continent. Although they managed to reach the last-eight this term, more could still be done to turn Spurs in to a European super-power. Hence, Pochettino is already planning for next season with summer dealings. Ex-superstar, Gareth Bale, is expected to return to champion that cause.
Bale became a household name at White Hart Lane, before being snapped by Real Madrid. An orthodox left-back, the Welshman flourished into an offensive beast and one of the fastest footballers in the world. He racked up nearly 60 goals in seven seasons in north London.
However, at the Bernabeu, he hasn’t quite hit those heights. Persistent injuries, a dip in form and overall style of play has hindered his progress. This term he’s been restricted to just 22 starts in all competitions and 31 appearances in total. In that time, the Cardiff-native has notched 15 goals and created four assists.
Bale’s time in Spain has seen him win numerous trophies, though. He’s picked up the Champions League three times and could add a fourth should Los Blancos defeat Liverpool in Kiev. That’s beside six other major honours.
Such invaluable European experience and exposure will be priceless to Pochettino’s side.
According to Don Balon, Madrid have agreed to sell Bale back to Tottenham, but they are still miles apart when it comes to price. The La Liga outfit is looking for around £79m, while Spurs value the injury-prone star at around £52.7m.
Should Bale arrive, the likes of Eric Lamela and Moussa Sissoko could make way. While winter arrival Lucas Moura will move further down the perking order.