A few weeks ago, The Independent reported that Gareth Bale's long-discussed departure from Real Madrid is more likely than ever before, with the Welshman willing to sign for Manchester United if his current employers decide to sell.

Bale's comments after lifting a third Champions League title with Los Blancos last weekend strongly suggested otherwise, but his club have a long reputation of being cut-throat in the transfer market - they've cashed in on Mesut Ozil and Angel Di Maria at the peak of their powers to help finance Galactio signings.

Yet, it could be argued that isn't the case with the former Tottenham Hotspur star, who has endured the most frustrating campaign of his career this season due to injuries - netting just nine times across all competitions. He's also missed 206 days since the start of last season due to injury, so a big-money swoop would be a real risk.

Nonetheless, Bale remains an undoubted member of world football's winger elite and United need to find top-class quality in the final third. So, United fans, would you back a summer swoop for the 66-cap international? Let us know by voting below...