Gareth Bale could leave Real Madrid on loan to ‘for sake of both sides’
Former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon believes a solution is needed with Zinedine Zidane certain to stay
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Real Madrid could loan out Gareth Bale, while paying part of his salary, according to the club’s former president Ramon Calderon.
The 31-year-old has endured a bitter relationship with the Spanish champions over the last few years, with Zinedine Zidane omitting the Welsh forward in the closing stages of the La Liga title-winning campaign.
Bale was restrained during celebrations after clinching the title, while his manager revealed the player chose not to travel for the Champions League last 16 tie against Manchester City on Friday and was seen playing golf.
Part of the problem with shifting Bale lies with his wages, reportedly worth £600,000 per week, but Calderon has now claimed Los Blancos may reluctantly make up a portion of his salary in order to cut ties.
“It’s very sad. It’s a pity to see a player like him in the stands... his skill and talent has not gone, he’s still a good player who could be playing at a high level in any team,” Calderon told the BBC.
“I think they’ll have to find a solution to end this agony for the sake of both sides.
“If he doesn’t want to reduce his salary, which would be understandable, they’ll have to find another way.
“The coach does not rely on him. If Zidane stays with Real, which I think is certain, then he (Bale) will have to find a new way...
“It wouldn’t surprise me if they let him go on loan and pay part of the salary.”
Bale’s agent Jonathan Barnett has previously dismissed talk the forward could leave on loan, maintaining the player is “going nowhere” last month.
But with two years remaining on his contract, both parties may be forced to find a compromise.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments