The key reasons why Manchester United did not rival Tottenham for Gareth Bale

Manchester United opted against rivaling Tottenham’s move for Gareth Bale, with the winger’s injury record and personal terms convincing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer not to pursue a loan deal.

Bale was always seen as a back up to top target Jadon Sancho, whose proposed transfer from Borussia Dortmund has reached an impasse over the German club’s £108million valuation.

Wales international Bale is now set to rejoin Spurs on loan seven years after leaving them for Real Madrid in a world record deal.

United were prepared to discuss a short-term move for the 31-year-old after learning of Real’s determination to offload him this summer.

But despite him being a long-term target for executive vice chairman Ed Woodward, it’s understood the Old Trafford club never drove negotiations - instead considering him one of a number of alternatives to Sancho.

Ivan Perisic and Douglas Costa remain under consideration, but Sancho is still Solskjaer’s overwhelming priority before the window closes next month.

Read more

Bale the latest big move in Levy's vision to build the Spurs brand

What Gareth Bale said about Spurs hiring 'serial winner' Jose Mourinho

Levy driving talks as Spurs close in on Bale reunion

Transfers LIVE! Bale, Reguilon to Spurs; Partey, Aouar to Arsenal