Manchester United are reportedly preparing a ยฃ75 million-plus bid to sign Gareth Bale from Spanish giants Real Madrid, according to The Mirror.

United are said to see Monday night's sacking of coach Rafa Benitez as an encouraging sign in their bid to sign the Welsh Wizard.

Bale is understood to be disappointed to see Benitez sacked, as he had a good relationship with the Spanish boss, opening the door for a possible move.

It is uncertain what role Bale will have under new coach Zinedine Zidane.