Gareth Bale’s exit from Real Madrid seems to be edging closer after Zinedine Zidane admitted the club are working on a deal to sell the player imminently.

Bale was absent from the Madrid team that suffered a 3-1 friendly defeat to Bayern Munich in Texas and speaking afterwards, Zidane confirmed the player is expected to leave the club.

“He wasn’t included in the squad because the club is working on his departure and that’s why he didn’t play.

“We’ll have to see if it goes through tomorrow, if it does then all the better. Let’s hope, for everyone’s sake, that it happens soon.”

The Wales international joined the Spanish giants from Spurs in 2013 for a then-world record £85m fee.

Bale’s six years in the Spanish capital has seen him help the club to six major trophies including four Champions League crowns.

30-year-old Bale, also scored in two finals, including a spectacular overhead kick against Liverpool in 2018.

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However, having fallen out of favour following the return of Zidane to the Bernabeu dugout this year, his time at the club seems to be at an end.

“I have nothing personal against him,” The Frenchman added “but there comes a time where things are done because they must be done,”

“The exit is the coach's decision, and also of the player, who knows the situation.

“The situation will change, I do not know if in 24 or 48 hours, but it will, and it's a good thing for everyone.”

Bale’s agent Jonathan Barnett hit back at the Madrid boss, telling ESPN “Zidane is a disgrace to speak like that about someone who has done so much for Real.

“If and when Gareth goes it will be because it is in the best interest of Gareth and nothing to do with Zidane pushing.”

Bale had been linked with a return to the Premier League, however, Manchester United have reportedly cooled their interest in the player.

Former club Tottenham are also said to be chasing the player’s signature but wages could be a sticking point in any potential deal.

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