Gareth Bale to Manchester United could be engineered with 'swap deal' involving Angel Di Maria, claims Dietmar Hamann

Speculation over Welshman's future has intensified following dismal performance against Juventus

Gareth Bale and Angel Di Maria (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United may have an "opportunity" to sign Gareth Bale from Real Madrid - by offering Angel Di Maria as part of a swap deal.

That's the view of former Germany international and Liverpool player Dietmar Hamann, who was speaking in the aftermath of Real Madrid's Champions League defeat to Juventus.

Bale put in a poor performance, making little contribution as the reigning champions gave themselves a tough task of reaching next month's final. The display from the world's most expensive player was just the latest in numerous poor performances this season.

It's a situation that's led to speculation he could be sold this summer, something Manchester United are keeping close tabs on. The Red Devils made a move for Bale when he left Tottenham in 2013.

According to Hamann, Di Maria could be used to sweeten the deal, another player who has failed to shine this term.

“I wouldn’t be too concerned with Gareth Bale’s performance against Juventus," Hamann told talkSPORT. "I know he had a poor game but he had been out for a few weeks.

“Sometimes these players, who rely on their pace, can take a few weeks to get back to full speed.

“A bigger issue is the problem with Cristiano Ronaldo. I don’t think there’s space for the two of them. Ronaldo has scored 54 goals this season, he is their main player. I just don’t think there’s a place for both of them.

“Last year they seemed to get on well, Bale had a decent season and scored more than 20 goals. The fans gave him some stick before Christmas though, and his confidence seems to have gone. I don’t know whether he’s homesick or there is something wrong.

He continued: “There is a lot of uncertainty at the moment. The way it’s going, I would be very surprised if he was at Real Madrid next season. Manchester United will be on red alert.

“Angel Di Maria came from Real Madrid and there may be the opportunity to do a swap deal. I would love to see Gareth Bale back in the Premier League.”