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Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rafael van der Vaart says that Real Madrid attacker Gareth Bale would be wise to consider a return to the north London club.

What he said

Speaking to Cadena Ser radio station - as translated by ESPN - the 36-year-old Dutchman was asked about how Bale is doing at the Bernabeu. He said: “I think he [Bale] wants to stay at Real Madrid and play more…But I believe that a team like Manchester United or a return to Tottenham would be better for him”.

Bale has had a tough time with the La Liga giants this season. The club’s fans, and the local media, have all criticised the Welshman at times this year. 

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The 29-year-old has racked up a respectable return of thirteen goals and five assists in all competitions so far, as per Transfermarkt’s stats. However, more is expected of the man Real paid £85 million to sign in 2013 - especially since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Out of reach

The 74-cap Wales international would certainly be welcome back at Spurs. Bale would also give Mauricio Pochettino’s side a huge boost of quality. How he might combine with the likes of Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Christian Eriksen is a frightening proposition for other Premier League clubs to consider.

However, even though Bale is not the most popular figure in Madrid, he still has a Transfermarkt valuation of £72 million and a contract set to run until 2022. The Spanish club would surely command a huge fee in exchange for the forward, far beyond what Daniel Levy would likely be prepared to pay.

A return to Spurs may well suit Bale, but he is no longer within the club’s reach.