Former Man United was boss desperate to sign Bale

Former Manchester United boss David Moyes has admitted he was desperate to sign Gareth Bale when in charge at Old Trafford.

United were one of the potential destinations for the Welsh winger as his time at Tottenham Hotspur came to an end two summers ago, but they missed out as Bale made an £86m move to Real Madrid.

“Gareth Bale is an outstanding player,” Moyes told Sky Sports.

“I was desperate to take him to Manchester United from Tottenham, but couldn’t quite get him. He had his heart set on going to Real Madrid.

“He was very much on my radar as soon as I went to United.

“He can score goals, can make goals, he’s got speed, he’s physically capable, and I think next year he will be a big star in Madrid.”

Bale has been strongly linked with a return to England this season after a string of poor performances which have led fans of the Spanish giants to show their impatience, but Moyes believes he will come good at the Santiago Bernabeu.

“It is down to settling in. David de Gea took time to settle at Manchester United, it is not easy,” said the Scot, who is currently managing Real Sociedad.

“We have to give him time, Bale is no different to anyone else.

“As a British player playing abroad, you have to get involved, immerse yourself in the culture. You have to get used to the living times, the eating habits.

“He is at a great club that will give him opportunity to succeed and I think he will.”