Manchester United have reportedly set aside £20million to sign Gareth Bale from Tottenham this summer.

After simmering for a few months, Bale has exploded with some stunning performances recently – including a Man of the Match outing against Chelsea on Saturday.

And his form has not gone unnoticed. According to a report in the Daily Mail, Inter Milan and Manchester City are interested in signing the player, but Manchester United seem to be in pole position.

In fact, it is rumoured that a deal could even be discussed when United visit Spurs on Saturday for a crucial Premier League encounter.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has declared the winger’s importance to the team, saying: “It would have scared me to death to have sold him [last year]. I knew what he had. The sky’s the limit for him now.”

If the move materialises, Bale would serve as a good counterweight for Antonio Valencia – who plays on the right flank for United. The champions’ attacks have tended to be a bit lopsided in recent times – going through either Valencia or down the centre.

Bale’s presence would serve to make them threatening all across the pitch.

(Via EspnStar)