Gareth Bale has won the Champions League and the Copa del Rey at Real Madrid

Gareth Bale was not close to leaving Real Madrid, says agent

Gareth Bale was never going to leave Real Madrid this summer despite being linked with Manchester United, according to the forward's agent.

The Wales striker, 26, has been at the Spanish giants since joining from Tottenham in September 2013 for a world record £85m.

That deal was brokered by Jonathan Barnett, Bale's representative.

Asked if there was truth in reports  he was close to a summer exit, Barnett said: "None. Why should he leave?"

He added: "Real are the greatest club in the world. I am talking for him, not for me, I am his agent and do what he tells me. He loves Real Madrid."

‘Every club would want Bale’

Barnett would not confirm whether or not Manchester United were interested in Bale, but suggested there is little chance he will move to the Premier League in the foreseeable future.

Bale is not yet halfway through the six-year contract he signed in 2013.

"He has a contract and is enjoying life," added Barnett. "If you asked him today if he would move he would say 'no', but life changes.

"I would say he is happy there and as long as they are happy with him he will be happy there.

"He is 26, he has the best years of his life to come. He will be the best player in the world and I think every club in the world would want him."