As reported by Spanish outlet Don Balon, Manchester United still have a chance to sign Real Madrid star Gareth Bale this summer, but only if they make a big defensive sacrifice in return.

What's the story?

With Victor Lindelof, Nemanja Matic and Romelu Lukaku already arriving at Old Trafford this summer, Jose Mourinho has made some big signings that will change the look of his first-team next season.

However, they still need more of a creative cutting edge in attack and that's perhaps why they're trying to take advantage of Gareth Bale's situation at Real Madrid.

That's according to Don Balon anyway, who say that the Red Devils are looking to capitalise on the fact Bale is not first choice under Zinedine Zidane. However, the report states that Real Madrid are only willing to do business if popular goalkeeper David De Gea moves the other way.

Is defence or attack the priority?

Jose Mourinho has long been associated with a more pragmatic approach to the game and in that sense it might seem strange for him to give up one of his greatest defensive assets to bring a player like Gareth Bale to the club.

However, with the likes of Wayne Rooney and Zlatan Ibrahimovic leaving Old Trafford this summer, Mourinho needs important and impressive attackers to come in and contribute with creativity and goals.

Despite falling down the pecking order under Zinedine Zidane and struggling with injuries at Real Madrid, it’d be silly to say Gareth Bale wouldn’t still be one of the best players in the Premier League should he make a return to England.

His problems at Real Madrid might mean his long-term future there is in doubt but he’s still been a great performer for the Spanish giants, scoring 67 goals in 150 appearances for the club from a range of attacking midfield and forward positions.

Adding that kind of firepower could prove worth it if they can line-up a capable goalkeeping replacement for De Gea.

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