Football Transfer News: Real Madrid Finally Signs Gareth Bale from Tottenham
Real Madrid officially announced on Sunday via Twitter the signing of Tottenham Hotspur superstar Gareth Bale.
The most-followed transfer saga of this year's summer transfer window has come to an end with Bale agreeing to a 6-year contract with the Los Blancos.
Various sources reports that the deal went through on a record-breaking fee of €100 million (£85 million), making him the most expensive player, to date.
Bale was euphoric that the deal was finally sealed, but was thankful to the club that molded him to realise his full potential, as well as the fans that supported him unconditionally.
"I have had six very happy years at Tottenham but it's the right time to say goodbye. We've had some special times together over the years and I've loved every minute of it. I would like to thank everyone at the club, the chairman, board, staff, coaches and players - and most of all the fantastic fans who I hope will understand this amazing career opportunity." Bale told fifa.com.
"I am not sure there is ever a good time to leave a club where I felt settled and was playing the best football of my career to date. I know many players talk of their desire to join the club of their boyhood dreams, but I can honestly say, this is my dream come true. I am well aware that I would not be at the level I am today were it not for firstly Southampton and then Spurs standing by me during some of the tougher times and affording me the environment and support they have.
"Tottenham will always be in my heart and I'm sure that this season will be a successful one for them. I am now looking forward to the next exciting chapter in my life, playing football for Real Madrid."
As for Tottenham boss Andres Villas-Boas, moving on will be the next thing on his agenda as Bale was a signicant contributor to their fourth place finish, which was just one point shy clinching a Champions League spot.
"He is going to join Real Madrid so we wish him all the best,"
"The player is an absolutely wonderful player."
"He has left us with some great memories from last season which every Tottenham fan cherishes, but he has moved on and we will move on as well."
Tottenham currently sits at sixth place in the premier league, with six points out of a possible nine, thanks to a fantastic showing of newly signed striker Roberto Soldado.