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Manchester United have turned their attention to Karim Benzema after losing hope that a deal can be reached with Real Madrid for Gareth Bale , it's claimed.
The Red Devils have held a long-term interest in Bale, who they tried to sign when the Wales international left Tottenham, and had hopes a deal could be reached to bring him to Old Trafford this summer. It comes after a difficult second season in Spain for Bale during which he was criticised by Real Madrid fans.
However, yesterday he reiterated his desire to stay and fight for his place under new coach Rafa Benitez, who is thought to see Bale as central to his plans.
“I’m a Real Madrid player and I’ll carry on as normal," said Bale.
“I am enjoying it and hopefully I can continue to. I feel settled. I’m looking forward now to playing and winning more trophies.
“My goal is to keep improving, performing and to win as many titles as I can.”
Show all 11 1 /11Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE ARRIVAL: David De Gea The Manchester United goalkeeper is torn between his current club and a switch to Real Madrid. The Spanish side are understood to be increasingly confident he will join them.
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Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE ARRIVAL: Raheem Sterling The Liverpool forward wants to leave Anfield this summer in search of trophies and there are few better places to find them than at the Bernabeu. Reports suggest Liverpool and Real Madrid will discuss a possible £45m deal later this month. Any aggressive move by Benitez could sour his relationship with Liverpool fans.
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Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE ARRIVAL: Paul Pogba The most in-demand midfielder in Europe has helped take Juventus to the Champions League final, but if Real Madrid get their way, it could be the Frenchman's last game for the Italian giants. Real recently denied reports that they have already made a bid, but rumours continue.
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Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE ARRIVAL: Radamel Falcao The Colombian endured a terrible season at Manchester United, but his record prior to Old Trafford can't be ignored. With Javier Hernandez's loan coming to an end, Real Madrid need a new striker and Falcao has the necessary reputation and something to prove.
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Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE ARRIVAL: Sergio Aguero Real Madrid's top target would be Aguero, but it is nearly impossible to conceive Manchester City selling him. The Argentina international only signed a five-year contract last summer.
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Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE EXIT: Cristiano Ronaldo It's suggested that Benitez could look to build his team around Gareth Bale, an approach that would put Ronaldo's nose out of joint and potentially have him seeking a new club. There wouldn't be any shortage of suitors, with Manchester United arguably the likeliest destination.
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Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE EXIT: Gareth Bale The Wales international endured a difficult second season at Real Madrid and has persistently been linked with a return to the Premier League. How Benitez rates the world's most expensive player will be key to determining if he has a future at the Bernabeu.
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Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE EXIT: Isco The Spanish playmaker was impressive at Real Madrid last season, but due to the wealth of talent at the club found himself played out of position or needing to make an impact from the bench. The player is reportedly frustrated at the situation and a new club could be the way forward. Manchester City reportedly keen.
Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE EXIT: Iker Casilla If De Gea arrives, Casillas' position will become difficult. The long-time Real Madrid number one has indicated he will stay whatever and compete with De Gea if he has to. But Benitez might decide that constant sparring between the two is not worth the hassle and move Casillas on. Arsenal have always shown interest.
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Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE EXIT: Karim Benzema The France international seems to be linked with a departure from the Bernabeu every summer, and this one is no different. Over six years at the Bernabeu the 27-year-old has been a consistent goal-getter. Arsenal regularly linked.
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Real Madrid: Possible transfer arrivals and exits POSSIBLE EXIT: Raphael Varane The 22-year-old has become a regular at the back since breaking into the team he joined in 2011. Considered among the best defenders in Europe and with his career ahead of him, the Frenchman is in demand and could potentially be sold to finance other deals. Manchester United and Chelsea are the clubs most consistently linked.
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With Manchester United keen to bring in attacking reinforcements, Benzema has reportedly become a new target. The France international has been a consistent performer at the Bernabeu during his six years at the club. However, to boost their transfer coffers and maintain their tradition of refreshing their squad on a regular basis, it's thought Real Madrid would be open to selling Benzema for around £30m.
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