Chelsea have waded into the battle for Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale, directly confronting Manchester United for the player, as reported by the Daily Star.
Man Utd have been consistently linked to the former Tottenham Hotspur star in the last few weeks, believing him to be an ideal player to improve their side.
He also fits the same mould as Man Utd’s most recent signings, which have been big names rather than players to develop.
However, despite Man Utd wanting to offer the ex-Spurs man up to £300,000 a week to move to Old Trafford, competition from Chelsea could change the situation and see Bale move elsewhere.
Jose Mourinho, the Chelsea manager, is reportedly willing to match the supposed £90 million bid that Man Utd have been preparing.
An offer would not arrive until the summer, however, and this could put Chelsea at a disadvantage.
Bale had a significant impact in his first season at Real, but may no longer be completely first choice.
