Manchester Evening News

'Failure is what they do' – Bryan Mbeumo urged to rethink transfer by former Man United star

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'Failure is what they do' – Bryan Mbeumo urged to rethink transfer by former Man United star - Manchester Evening News
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Bryan Mbeumo has a big decision to make this summer as Man United and Tottenham battle it out for his signature, with a former Old Trafford star now offering his view

Bryan Mbeumo has been advised to choose a move to Tottenham over Manchester United as the competition for his signature intensifies.

The Red Devils are keen to make the sought-after Brentford forward their next summer signing in a deal worth £60million, having already secured Matheus Cunha from Wolves. However, it's understood that Tottenham are trying to entice Mbeumo to north London.

Brentford manager Thomas Frank is expected to take over from Ange Postecoglou at Spurs next week. It's believed that the Danish boss is keen to bring Mbeumo with him, despite United having extensive discussions with the 25-year-old about a move to Old Trafford.

The Cameroon international now faces a significant decision, with United prepared to offer him a more lucrative deal, but Spurs offering Champions League football and the chance to continue working with Frank.

A former United goalkeeper has given his opinion on what Mbeumo's next step should be, surprisingly advising him to opt for Tottenham. Ben Foster, who played for United between 2005 and 2010, believes Spurs have greater potential for success under Frank next season and will aid his development as a player.

"I would say that if you want to be part of something that's going to make you a better footballer and work hard and be part of a team, then go to Spurs with Thomas Frank," the former Wrexham keeper said on his Fozcast podcast.

"If you are happy picking up your wages knowing that there's going to be an awful lot more pressure, a lot more eyes on you, a lot more judgement and failure is just part of what they do, then you'd go to Manchester United."

Mbeumo has turned heads across the Premier League after netting 20 league goals last season, complemented by seven assists which played a significant role in Brentford's impressive top-half finish. Despite Newcastle's failed attempt to secure his services in January, interest remains high.

United have reportedly tabled two offers for Mbeumo, who appears open to a switch, despite their shaky start under Ruben Amorim. However, with no agreement reached with Brentford as yet, Tottenham could swoop in and outpace their rivals for the forward's signature.

Foster has thrown his support behind Mbeumo, tipping him for success wherever he lands next term. The ex-England keeper lauded his character while discussing his potential.

"I'm not questioning Bryan Mbeumo about his ability, about his mentality or about what he's like as a person," Foster said. "There's nothing to show me that I should have any worries about it. Whoever he goes and plays for, I think he would improve them and he gets into the starting line-up.

"He's got a proven record of being fit and scoring goals. He could get into pretty much all of the 20 Premier League teams and I think he starts, that's how good I think Bryan Mbeumo is."

Mbeumo, who has a year remaining on his contract at Brentford with an additional year's option, is reportedly being offered around £150,000 per week by United, which could increase to £200,000 with add-ons. Meanwhile, Spurs are ready to offer him a basic package of approximately £130,000 per week.

Tottenham forgot crucial Bryan Mbeumo detail that gives Man United transfer advantage

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Tottenham forgot crucial Bryan Mbeumo detail that gives Man United transfer advantage - Manchester Evening News
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Tottenham Hotspur are considered to be prepared to go in strong to sign Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo in the summer transfer window, right underneath the noses of Manchester United.

MEN Sport understands that United have made Mbeumo their priority now that Liam Delap is no longer a viable option. They have submitted one bid worth £55m which is believed to be below Brentford's valuation but they remain confident of getting a deal done.

Over the weekend, though, the transfer was thrown into some jeopardy when Spurs announced the sacking of Ange Postecoglou and Thomas Frank was quickly established as their preferred successor. It is understood that Tottenham were informed by Frank that he would want them to battle for Mbeumo should he be hired and Spurs agreed that this would be a good idea.

All of this sounds absolutely perfect for the north London club - the perfect plan, perhaps. However, they have somehow forgotten a crucial detail that still gives United the edge.

Mbeumo had the chance to continue working with Frank this season when United initially made a move for him. At this stage, there was no suggestion that the Dane would be leaving the club and, on the surface, Brentford was offering a brighter vision than United.

They comfortably finished above the Reds and neither club could offer the Cameroonian talisman Champions League football. And yet, Mbeumo still favoured a move to Old Trafford and gave them priority to pursue him this summer.

Clearly, the 25-year-old is not motivated by the short-term project nor does he feel like he needs to follow Frank to his next destination. Instead, he is motivated by the project at United and playing under Ruben Amorim.

This is not a case of when Antony wanted to follow Erik ten Hag from Ajax to United. Mbeumo wants to join because of the vision that Amorim is setting out for him and this is what gives the Reds a clear advantage over Spurs.

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Tottenham prepare Man United target Bryan Mbeumo welcome gift amid transfer tussle

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Tottenham prepare Man United target Bryan Mbeumo welcome gift amid transfer tussle - Manchester Evening News
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Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo is a priority target for Manchester United but Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race in recent days

Tottenham Hotspur could have the perfect welcome gift for Manchester United target Bryan Mbeumo if the Brentford talisman chooses to move across London this summer.

In recent weeks, Mbeumo has emerged as a top target for United after they missed out on Liam Delap. MEN Sport understands that United submitted a £55m bid for the winger but it is believed this has been rejected with Brentford thought to be valuing him at a similar price to Matheus Cunha who was bought for £62.5m by the Reds.

Mbeumo is understood to favour a move to United this summer and is giving the Reds priority to negotiate with him. Last week, the transfer was thrown into some slight jeopardy after reports emerged that Tottenham could enter the race to sign him.

This started after Spurs sacked manager Ange Postecoglou and listed Bees boss Thomas Frank as their top candidate to replace him. It was claimed that the Dane informed Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy that he would insist the club targets Mbeumo in the transfer window and the owner was on board with the idea.

If Tottenham were to complete this deal for Mbeumo, they already have the perfect welcome gift for him. For his national team Cameroon, the 25-year-old wears the number 20 having worn number 19 for much of his time at Brentford.

Spurs' current No.20, Fraser Forster, was confirmed to be leaving north London this summer when his contract expires meaning that shirt number would be available for the forward if he wished to take it. While United would not be able to offer Mbeumo the No.20 as it is currently occupied by Diogo Dalot, they could potentially go one better.

The No.19 at Old Trafford is currently vacant having last been worn by Raphael Varane during the 2023/24 season. While his final decision is unlikely to be made based on available squad numbers, Mbeumo can at least rest easy that either his ideal shirt numbers are available at whichever club he moves to.

Here at The Manchester Evening News, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

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Bryan Mbeumo gets shock transfer instruction after Man United green light

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Bryan Mbeumo gets shock transfer instruction after Man United green light - Manchester Evening News
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Manchester United latest transfer news as Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo has been given a stark warning with a move to Old Trafford 'edging closer and closer' this summer

Bryan Mbeumo has been given a stark warning ahead of a proposed move to Manchester United this summer.

The Brentford frontman, who scored 20 and assisted seven in 38 Premier League games last season, has made Old Trafford his 'preferred destination' despite attracting interest from clubs around the world.

United followed by submitting their opening bid for the Cameroon international, believed to total £55million comprising of a £45million fixed fee and £10million in add-ons.

But according to Sky Sports, the west London club outright rejected the offer and value Mbeumo at over £60million —though both clubs are claimed to remain in negotiations.

A spanner has since been put in the works as reported interest of top flight rivals Tottenham Hotspur has emerged, with Daniel Levy 'close' to appointing Mbeumo's current manager Thomas Frank as Ange Postecoglou's successor.

Now an Arsenal legend has issued a strict instruction to the 25-year-old that has even left Spurs fans shocked.

Perry Groves has admitted the player should join the North London club instead, telling talkSport: "Then you are looking at Manchester United who knows they need a centre forward, it has been reported that they are in for Bryan Mbeumo as well.

"If Manchester United come in for him and Spurs are in for Mbeumo, where do you think he goes.

"If that comes as a choice, football wise he should go to, it pains me to say it, he should go to Spurs because of Champions League football, and you want to play at the highest level.

"But financially that is why Spurs are going to struggle to get to that, even with Antonio Conte, obviously Postecoglou had a bit of a moan about it, Jose Mourinho that next level, because all the top teams pay their top players £250,000 a week but Spurs are never going to do that."

United knew attracting players could prove a challenge this summer after missing out on Champions League football following the Europa League defeat to Spurs in Bilbao, and finishing 15th after a dismal Premier League campaign.

But with Mbeumo reportedly eyeing Manchester as his ideal next step, Ruben Amorim holds the cards on whether he will follow Matheus Cunha through the Old Trafford entrance door.

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Bryan Mbeumo to Man United transfer latest as bid is rejected and Tottenham make move

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Bryan Mbeumo to Man United transfer latest as bid is rejected and Tottenham make move - Manchester Evening News
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Manchester United transfer news and rumours including the latest on the pursuit of Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo

Following the arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolves, Manchester United are showing no signs of slowing down in the transfer market as they step up their pursuit of Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo.

It’s a crucial summer for the club, with Ruben Amorim finally given the opportunity to put his own stamp on the squad he inherited from Erik ten Hag late last year. The need for significant improvement is clear after a disappointing 15th-place finish in the Premier League and underwhelming performances in both domestic and European cup competitions.

With that in mind, MEN Sport has taken a look at the latest news and rumours surrounding United’s pursuit of Mbeumo, as the first transfer window of the summer approaches its final days.

Rivals 'enter race'

United’s hopes of signing Mbeumo may have suffered a setback on Saturday, with reports emerging that Premier League rivals Tottenham have entered the race for the Cameroon international. According to The Mirror, Thomas Frank has informed the London club of his desire to rival United for the £60 million transfer.

Spurs are currently in the market for a new manager, having parted ways with Ange Postecoglou earlier this week, despite his Europa League final victory over United last month. Brentford boss Frank is now the leading contender to replace him and appears eager to bring one of his key players with him to north London.

First bid rejected

Earlier this week, reports claimed United submitted their opening offer to Brentford for Mbeumo, totalling £55 million, comprised of a £45 million fixed fee plus £10 million in add-ons. According to Sky Sports, the bid was swiftly rejected, with Brentford valuing the 25-year-old at over £60 million.

The report also notes that the Bees are open to offers and United remain in active negotiations, determined to get a deal over the line. Mbeumo has long been admired at Old Trafford, and it's believed the coaching staff view him as a strong fit for Amorim’s system and style of play.

Mbeumo preference

United’s pursuit has intensified following encouraging signs from the player’s camp that he is keen on a move to the North West. The Athletic were first to report that Mbeumo has made United his preferred destination, despite attracting interest from elsewhere in the Premier League.

The winger enjoyed one of his most productive seasons for Brentford in 2024/25, contributing 20 goals and eight assists in all competitions. His versatility adds to his appeal, although he is most often deployed on the right flank.

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Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United transfer twist as fresh Thomas Frank 'demand' emerges

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Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United transfer twist as fresh Thomas Frank 'demand' emerges - Manchester Evening News
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The latest Man Utd transfer news as key figures at Old Trafford continue to track Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo.

Manchester United may face trouble in their pursuit for Bryan Mbeumo with Brentford head coach Thomas Frank claimed to be demanding Tottenham Hotspur target the forward if he moves across London to become the club's new manager.

With Ruben Amorim seeking attacking strength to spring-board into next season, Mbeumo provided a welcome boost by outlining that Old Trafford is his preferred destination. United have since made an opening move worth £55million in total - which fell short of Brentford's asking price - but negotiations remain on track.

However, Spurs have emerged as a contender for the Cameroonian's signature in dramatic fashion.

The Mirror report Mbeumo's manager, Frank, to have instructed the north London club to lay down the money to beat United to the transfer - amid question marks over his own future.

He would not be just doing this out of spite, but seemingly as part of negotiations to become Spurs' manager - in the wake of Ange Postecoglou's recent sacking. The Dane is the bookies' early favourite to step in.

Posing a clear threat to Old Trafford chiefs is not only their six-year relationship as player and coach, but also the fact Spurs would be able to offer Champions League football which was, of course, claimed by beating Amorim's side in last month's Europa League final.

So, the 25-year-old must make a decision - stick with Frank if all goes to plan for him or seek a new venture.

Though as of now, Spurs and Frank have not come to any sort of arrangement over the vacant managerial post.

Mbeumo scored 20 Premier League goals last term and the Bees aren't going to be pushovers in this transfer saga. It's said £60million is what they will demand for their star player.

That total above was his best goal-scoring season in the English top-flight to date and saw him finish fourth in the race for the golden boot; behind Mohamed Salah (29), Alexander Isak (23) and Erling Haaland (22). He also grabbed eight assists.

Here at The Manchester Evening News, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

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Offer submitted, Tottenham twist, clear demands

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Bryan Mbeumo to Man United transfer latest - Offer submitted, Tottenham twist, clear demands - Manchester Evening News
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Bryan Mbeumo to Man United transfer latest - Offer submitted, Tottenham twist, clear demands

The latest Manchester United transfer news as the club have identified the Brentford forward as a key transfer target this summer.

Manchester United have just a few days remaining to complete transfer business before the first mini transfer window of the summer closes. After opening at the start of the month, the window will close for a few days on Tuesday, 10 June.

It will re-open six days later, allowing clubs to continue with their business until the deadline on September 1 (7pm). For United, they will hope to get their second signing of the summer over the line.

The club are working hard on a potential deal for Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo. If he completes a move he will join Matheus Cunha at Old Trafford with the Brazilian completing a £62.5 million move from Wolves.

Mbeumo has impressed in the Premier League with the Bees, the season just gone saw him score 20 goals in 38 league appearances. He also provided eight asists.

As United work on completing a deal, here’s the latest news on the potential transfer.

Second offer submitted

United have submitted their second offer for the forward, with reports claiming it could be their final offer to Brentford. After seeing their initial bid of £45 million plus £10 million in add-ons rejected, United have now upped their offer.

The Mirror reports that the second offer is £55 million, plus £5 million in bonuses. It is still to be seen if Brentford will accept or reject the bid, with the Bees’ valuation of the player starting at £60 million.

The report also says that personal terms over a five-year deal with wages around £200,000 per-week has already been agreed with the player.

Worrying development

United may be keeping a close eye on what is going on at Tottenham Hotspur over the next few days, with it potentially impacting the transfer of Mbeumo.

Spurs announced on Friday that they had parted ways with head coach Ange Postecoglou. Brentford boss Thomas Frank has quickly been instilled as favourite to take over.

The uncertainty at Brentford may cause them to delay a decision over Mbeumbo, and any compensation that they potentially get for Frank could mean they rise the price for Mbeumo.

There is then, of course, the threat that Frank makes a move of his own for the player if he is appointed at Tottenham. Spurs will be playing Champions League football next season after their Europa League win, and the player and manager know each other well.

It’s a situation that will be watched very closely.

Transfer demands

It has been claimed that Mbeumo has told United in talks with the club that he wants £250,000 per week if he joins the club this summer.

Beyonce merchandise prices for Cowboy Carter tour at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - full list

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Beyonce merchandise prices for Cowboy Carter tour at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - full list - Manchester Evening News
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Here is everything you need to know about securing merch at Beyonce's London gigs

Beyonce is currently treating UK fans to six nights in London at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as part of her Cowboy Carter World Tour.

It is the first time Queen Bey has performed in the country since her Renaissance World Tour in 2023 and her UK run of performances kicked off on Wednesday, June 5 - with a further five nights on June 7, 10, 12, 14 and 16.

Over at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, there is a pop-up merchandise store available for fans who are attending the concerts over the next week.

On show days the merch store is open from 12pm to 11:30pm while on non-show days it is open 9:30am to 5:30pm.

One dedicated member of the Beyhive has shared her experience of shopping in Beyonce's merch store at Tottenham Hotspur. Kristabel Plummer posted a video on TikTok sharing some of the available merch and their prices.

She arrived at Tottenham Hotspur stadium at 11:30am to find a long queue - but security advised her that the store doesn't open until 12pm.

Kristabel said: "It actually opened at 1pm and it was absolute chaos. I think we did all manage to get in - they didn't open the fitting room so just be aware of that if you want to try things on."

She went around the Beyonce merch store at Tottenham Hotspur stadium and shared some of the available items which included various different styles of T-shirts including a London exclusive design, a 'This ain't a country tour it's a Beyonce tour' tee, and a Jolene's top among more.

All the T-shirts were £50, as were the vests. Jerseys, which came in red, blue and black were £70. A zip-up hoodie will set fans back £135.

A pack of gold hair charms cost £20 and a pack of patches is £18.

There were various caps and hats ranging from £45 to £70.

All items are available is sizes S to XXL.

Available Beyonce merch and prices

T-Shirts (multiple styles) - £50

Vests (multiple styles) - £50

Jersey (blue, red and black) - £70

Zip-up hoodies - £135

Pack of hair charms - £20

Pack Cowboy Carter patches - £18

Hats - £45 - £70

Denim shorts - £80

Merch store opening hours

On show days (June 5, 7, 10, 12, 14, 16) the opening hours are 12pm to 11.30pm.

On non-show days (June 6, 8, 9, 11 and 13) the store is open from 9.30am to 5.30pm.

On June 15, the store is open from 11am to 5pm.

Be prepared to queue to access the store, choose your items and make your payment.

Beyoncé Cowboy Carter UK tour dates

Jose Mourinho gives exciting answer to question about Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim

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Jose Mourinho gives exciting answer to question about Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim - Manchester Evening News
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Man Utd have backed Ruben Amorim to remain in charge next season, despite overseeing a dreadful campaign.

Jose Mourinho believes there are similarities between his first six months managing Porto and Ruben Amorim's time at Manchester United.

The 62-year-old won two league titles, the Taca de Portugal, the UEFA Cup, and the Champions League with Porto, which made him one of the world's most exciting coaching prospects.

However, Mourinho admitted Porto "struggled" to qualify for the UEFA Cup following his appointment in January 2002. Mourinho still guided Porto to a third-place finish in the Portuguese top flight, though, and he promised to "make Porto champions next year," which he subsequently delivered.

According to Mourinho, those six months are similar to Amorim's tenure at United, which has seen him struggle to improve the team and finish in 15th place in the Premier League.

Mourinho was asked about the Europa League final, which was contested by his former clubs, and discussed the impact of Tottenham Hotspur clinching glory in Bilbao last week.

"The impact is obvious," Mourinho told Sky Sports. "Tottenham play Champions League and of course for Mr Levy, the millions the Champions League gives, for him it’s the best news.

"For the fans, the players and Ange, it’s a title. Yes, the game was not amazing, but they made history for Tottenham because Tottenham didn’t have a trophy for so many years."

Mourinho continued: "From what I read – just what I read – the impact on United of course is huge in the sense of for how many years United are not involved in any European competition.

"But at the same time it looks like they are supporting Ruben, they are giving him time and conditions to go forward. I read some quotes from him saying he’s happy he came and already had these six months. When I went to Porto the same thing happened.

"I went in January and we had a difficult six months, we struggled even to qualify for UEFA Cup. And then we saw what happened.

"But when you ask me whether I was cheering one side? I was divided because on one side I love United and I have a fantastic relationship with Ruben. But on the other side I saw Sonny [Heung-min] crying with the cup… also for Tottenham fans, it was a special feeling."

Mourinho won the Primeira Liga title, Taca de Portugal and the UEFA Cup in his first full season at Porto and Amorim, speaking after the final day of the season, promised "good times" were coming after weathering the storm.

Amorim will strengthen his squad in the summer transfer window. Matheus Cunha is set to be the first signing of the summer and United remain interested in Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap.

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Here at the Manchester Evening News, we're dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

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I won the Champions League five times but snubbed Man United for Spurs – this is why

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I won the Champions League five times but snubbed Man United for Spurs – this is why - Manchester Evening News
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Gareth Bale could have been lining up for Manchester United as a younger player, but he decided to go to Tottenham, where he established himself as one of the most explosive forwards around

Gareth Bale looked on with delight as Tottenham Hotspur claimed their first trophy in 17 years after defeating Manchester United. Yet, the tale of the Welshman's career trajectory might have taken an alternate route had he accepted an offer from the Red Devils rather than joining Spurs.

Almost twenty years back, a youthful Bale was stealing headlines as a full-back, finding the net five times and setting up another 12 over 45 matches for Southampton, who were then in the Championship. Daniel Levy, stepping into the role of Spurs chairman, had his eye on Bale but faced formidable competition from Premier League titan Sir Alex Ferguson and the board at Manchester United.

However, Bale shunned the advances of Ferguson in favour of a move to north London in 2007. Reflecting on this pivotal choice in 2023 on his Airwayz channel, Bale credited the decision as instrumental in his success.

The now-35-year-old said: "I rejected Manchester United and went to Tottenham. At that time, United were the biggest team in the league, they were winning trophies, they had the biggest players, the best manager.

"The easiest decision would be to go to Man United and the biggest club. You always want to be at the biggest clubs but I took the approach that I wanted to be playing first-team football."

Bale's decision to join Spurs led to a six-season spell which saw him transition from left-back to a much more influential forward. He notched up 42 goals across 142 appearances, leaving a mark during his tenure in the Premier League.

The Welshman then secured a sensational move to Spanish titans Real Madrid in 2013, setting a world-record fee at the time of £85million. He linked up with superstars such as ex-United star Cristiano Ronaldo, Angel Di Maria, Karim Benzema, Sergio Ramos, Casemiro, and Luka Modric.

During his nine seasons wearing the revered Madrid strip, Bale scored 106 goals over 258 appearances, winning five Champions League titles, three La Liga triumphs, and numerous other honours.

A loan spell back at Spurs was followed by a stint with Los Angeles FC before he retired in 2023, cementing his legacy as one of the prodigious talents in both Welsh and global football history.

Some might think Bale would rue bypassing Ferguson's United, who seized the Premier League crown in 2008, 2009, 2011, and 2013 under Sir Alex, for Spurs. But the ex-winger insisted that at a young age, regular first-team action meant more to him than monetary gain or immediate success.

He added: "At that age, a lot of players would go for the money and would want to go to a bigger club.

"But I was playing, developing and learning. It was an important part of my development to keep playing first-team football because you can't replicate that."

Now, it seems Bale gets to smirk at the side he could have joined, especially after their disheartening European clash this past week.

During TNT Sport's coverage of Spurs' 1-0 triumph in the Europa League final, Bale was asked if the victory would dispel the 'Spursy' label often associated with the club's history of near misses.

He swiftly turned the conversation to United's recent struggles, as he added: "It could be a United-y thing now, I am telling you. But it gets rid of that stigma now for sure, and hopefully we can build on it."