A renewal of Gareth Bale's contract with Real Madrid is reportedly being "negotiated" by Los Blancos, who want him to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium—a feeling that is mutual for the winger.
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Bale Set for New Deal in Madrid
Thursday, May 26
According to Spanish football expert Guillem Balague, "[Bale] feels he is respected by everyone at the club. His renewal is being negotiated. Both club and him want him to stay put."
The 26-year-old's current deal keeps him at the club until 2019, but the club evidently wish to secure his long-term future in good time.
After a difficult second season in the Spanish capital, Bale has developed into a key performer for Real. Though injuries have restricted him to just 30 appearances in all competitions, he has netted an outstanding 19 goals and assisted 14, which has perhaps prompted the talk of a new deal.
The Welshman has long been linked with a move to Manchester United, with reports from Italy (h/t Anthony Chapman of the Sun) suggesting in April United might go head-to-head with locals rivals Manchester City for his signature this summer.
Signing an extended deal should put an end to such speculation, but even if United or any other suitors remain unperturbed by the news, the renewal will put Los Blancos in an even stronger bargaining position.
It seems apparent Bale is content to stay where he is and his new deal will only confirm that
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