Official: Tottenham confirm Gareth Bale departure to Real Madrid

Gareth Bale

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that Gareth Bale will sign for Real Madrid in a record transfer deal, reported to be around £86 million.

Gareth Bale, 24, was also linked with Manchester United, but chose Real Madrid instead.

Bale was in sizzling form for Tottenham last season, netting 26 goals and assisting 11.

He will be Real Madrid’s fifth signing of the season, following the signings of Casemiro, Daniel Carvajal, Isco and Asier Illarramendi.

Gareth Bale now becomes the most expensive transfer of all time, overtaking Cristiano Ronaldo, for whom Real Madrid paid £80 million to Manchester United in 2009.

Following is the tweet Tottenham posted:

The Welshman released the following statement to thank everyone at Tottenham:

“I would like to thank everyone at the Club, the Chairman, Board, staff, coaches and players – and most of all the fantastic fans who I hope will understand this amazing career opportunity.

“I am not sure there is ever a good time to leave a club where I felt settled and was playing the best football of my career to date. I know many players talk of their desire to join the club of their boyhood dreams, but I can honestly say, this is my dream come true.

“I am well aware that I would not be at the level I am today were it not for firstly Southampton and then Spurs standing by me during some of the tougher times and affording me the environment and support they have.

“Tottenham will always be in my heart and I’m sure that this season will be a successful one for them. I am now looking forward to the next exciting chapter in my life, playing football for Real Madrid.”

The Club can announce that it has reached agreement with Real Madrid for the transfer of Gareth Bale #THFC

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) September 1, 2013