On Monday, it seemed Kylian Mbappe’s future had finally been decided.

Marca were reporting that Real Madrid had agreed a deal for the Monaco striker worth around £161 million.

But those reports appeared to merely kick other potential suitors into action.

And City have an advantage in the race. That’s because Real need to raise funds before they can spend a world-record fee on Mbappe.

How United will benefit if Madrid sign Mbappe

To do so, it seems it will be Gareth Bale making way. Numerous reports have suggested the Welshman will be leaving the Bernabeu if Madrid sign Mbappe, with Manchester Evening News writing: “Real are trying to gather the funds to finance a world record bid - and will try to sell Bale to United to facilitate it.”

But who will sign Bale?

Well, according to ESPN, Manchester United will.

They’re reporting that United are preparing to sign Bale if he’s made available by Madrid this summer - which could be the case if they sign Mbappe.

Why United haven't tried to sign Bale

Earlier this week, Jose Mourinho explained why the Red Devils haven’t pursued a move for Bale this summer.

"The same [as Ronaldo]," Mourinho said when asked why he hasn't tried to sign Bale.

"You have contacts and feelings, you understand things, and it was clear that Bale likes Madrid, the challenge and situation.

"They are in a very good situation now and I never felt a desire for him to leave, so why waste time on it? No."

And after seeing the former Tottenham player in the tunnel before Madrid’s friendly with United, Mourinho explained why he couldn’t sign him.

"I can’t buy you because you don’t talk to me," he whispered in his ear.

However, all of that could change if Madrid make Bale available in order to sign Mbappe. If Bale 'starts talking to Mourinho', United may actually be able to pull off a sensational move for the Welshman.