Zidane dismisses speculation over Bale's future at Real Madrid

Zinedine Zidane insists Gareth Bale was given permission by Real Madrid to travel to London on Monday, and claims the Welshman never talks about leaving the club.

Bale has not played since injuring his calf during a game for Wales on October 13 and his trip to England has prompted speculation he will seek an exit from Madrid in January.

But Zidane insists Bale had permission to be absent on Monday and Tuesday morning and that he is not aware the 30-year-old wants to be sold.

"It was a personal issue and he had permission yesterday to go," Zidane said in a press conference on Tuesday.

"It was a personal issue and he went, that's it, no story. He also went because he's not available to play.

"But I don't think he ever speaks about leaving. When he is available he plays, that's all there is to it." Bale came close to a move to Chinese club Jiangsu Suning last summer after Zidane said it would be "best for everyone" if he left Real Madrid.

But the deal fell through at the last minute due to a disagreement over the transfer fee and Zidane is not expecting any fresh offers in January.

- Unimpressed -
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"If in January he says he'll stay, there will be talk about the transfer window in the summer. Unfortunately people will always speak about these things but he's here and everyone is happy he's here."