Gareth Bale is one of those players who seems to be permanently linked with a move to Manchester United.The world-class Welsh forward had the opportunity to join the Red Devils from Tottenham back in 2013 but instead opted for a dream move to Real Madrid.It’s worked out pretty well for the former Spurs star. In four years he’s won one La Liga title, one Copa del Rey, one FIFA Club World Cup, two UEFA Super Cups and a remarkable three Champions League titles.Bale is part of one of the most revered attacking trios in world football - alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, who complete the ‘BBC’ - and is widely regarded as one of the best players on the planet.Quite why he’d want to leave the Bernabeu is anyone’s guess, but if he did decide he’s tired of winning trophies at the world’s biggest football club then Man Utd will surely be at the front of the queue, chequebook in hand, hoping to secure his signature.Bale was in action against United on Sunday night at the Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.He played the first 45 minutes but failed to make a significant impact. This was his first pre-season appearance, though, so individual performances weren’t a concern for Zinedine Zidane. Boosting fitness levels was the primary objective.

What Mourinho said to Bale before kick-off

Prior to kick-off, Bale bumped into Jose Mourinho.

The two embraced and Mourinho was overheard saying something to Madrid’s No. 11.

Spanish media have now revealed what the Portuguese coach said - and it might come as a surprise to United fans.

According to Marca, Mourinho told Bale: “I couldn't buy you because you didn't speak out.”

Because Bale didn’t say in public that he wanted to leave Madrid, Mourinho didn’t try and sign him? Woah.

Watch the footage here…

That the two were smiling and laughing suggests it was a tongue-in-cheek comment from Mourinho, but the footage has certainly raised eyebrows.

Mourinho: Bale is happy at Madrid

Mourinho had stated at the weekend that he hadn’t moved for Bale because, in his words, “the player is happy.

“No point wasting time,” he added.

Bale's reaction to Mourinho's comments

And when Mourinho’s comments were put to Bale, here’s what the Wales international had to say, per the Manchester Evening News.

Reporter: Jose Mourinho says it would be mission impossible to get you to Manchester United.
Bale: ‘There you go.’
Reporter: Is that the way you see it?
Bale: ‘I haven’t said anything.’
Reporter: You continue to be happy at Real Madrid
Bale: ‘Yes.’

Will Gareth Bale join Manchester United after Real Madrid? Have your say by leaving a comment below.