DPA/London

Real Madrid are understood to have prepared a world record bid for the Wales international, with reports in the British media indicating that the player is frustrated by Tottenham’s hardline stance.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is renowned for his toughness in negotiations and flew to Hong Kong last week to speak to Bale during Tottenham’s tour of south east Asia.

Real Madrid are believed to be ready to offer 85 million pounds (130.7 million dollars) with reports in the Daily Mail suggesting Spurs would accept that plus a player, perhaps the Argentina winger Angel Di Maria.

The squad was given two days off
on returning from Asia, with training
to resume today, but Bale seems unlikely to be involved in Saturday’s friendly against Monaco even
if he has recovered from a minor
gluteal injury.

If further talks this week go badly, it seems probable that Bale, who has three years remaining in his contract, will submit a formal transfer request.

Spurs still appear willing to offer Bale a new contract, almost doubling his salary to 150,000 pounds a week.

Tottenham’s efforts to sign forward Roberto Soldado for a club record 25.8 million pounds, however, seem to be progressing.

Meanwhile, Madrid captain Iker Casillas has said that Bale is “one of the top three or four players in Europe”.

Casillas issued a thinly veiled ‘come and join us’ invitation while also admitting that the Bale transfer is “controversial”.

But, he added, that when it comes to a player like the Wales international, it should be expected. “Every transfer is controversial in its own way, for better or worse, but we are speaking about a very good, decisive player,” he said.

“I’m sure we’ll make another signing before the transfer window shuts.”