Manchester United transfer news: Gareth Bale ‘very happy’ at Real Madrid and ready to replace Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid face Manchester United in their next preseason game

Bale is happy to remain at Real after talks with Lopetegui (AP)

Julen Lopetegui has insisted Gareth Bale will stay at Real Madrid this summer to fill Cristiano Ronaldo’s place and is “very happy” at the club, amid interest from Manchester United.

The Welshman indicated after his match-winning display in the Champions League final in May that he would leave the club this summer after growing frustrated with a lack of playing time in what should be the prime of his career.

However, circumstances have changed with Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo both leaving the club, creating an opening for Bale to step out of the Portuguese’s shadow.

Manchester United chief Ed Woodward has wanted to sign Bale ever since taking the job at United as he continues his never-ending quest of signing high-profile players.

Real Madrid face Manchester United in their next preseason game in Miami but Lopetegui was adamant Bale will not be lining up for the opposition come the first game of next season.

“He's very, very happy,” said the former Spain manager. “He's very happy to play at Real Madrid. He's happy to be here, this is a fantastic opportunity for him to show his talent.

Bale is happy to remain at Real after talks with Lopetegui (AP)

“I've talked to him like I've talked to everyone. He's with the team, he's happy, he's in line with our goals and it's a start of a new exciting path for us that I'm looking forward to.

“We first recognise Cristiano as one of the most important players in the recent history of Real Madrid, he vocalised his desire to leave and the club gave him all the facilities to do so. We wish him all the luck in the world.

“And when it comes to our players, Bale and everyone else, we are completely convinced we have the players to move forward.

“Bale is a magnificent player with qualities and we are convinced he and everyone else can fill the void.”