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“They were paying 120”: Ex-PL boss reveals details of Man United’s failed bid for football legend

Former Tottenham Hotspur boss Andre Villas-Boas has revealed eye-catching details of Manchester United's failed swoop for Gareth Bale.

The Peoples Person

Published: Thursday, 24 September 2026 at 8:34 AM

Key Things to Know

Manchester United launched a late €120 million bid for a permanent transfer of Gareth Bale in 2013.
Andre Villas-Boas revealed Bale rejected United because he only wanted to join Real Madrid.
Bale subsequently signed with Real Madrid for a then-world-record transfer fee of €100 million.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Andre Villas-Boas revealed that Manchester United attempted a late permanent swoop for Gareth Bale with a €120 million bid. The approach came after Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement under David Moyes, but Bale had his mind firmly set on moving to Real Madrid instead.

Speaking on the Obionepodcast, Villas-Boas stated that Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy informed him of United's offer during their pre-season tour in Hong Kong. Bale ultimately signed with Real Madrid for a then-world-record €100 million fee, going on to win five Champions League titles.

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“They were paying 120”: Ex-PL boss reveals details of Man United’s failed bid for football legend

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