Soccer: Bale's move to Madrid still stuck

Gareth Bale. Photo / AP

Gareth Bale made an unexpected return to Tottenham's training ground yesterday before a potentially decisive round of talks over his prospective world-record move to Real Madrid. But his likely transfer to the Bernabeu has drawn a cool response from Cristiano Ronaldo, the world's most expensive player.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy and Madrid president Florentino Perez are due to meet in Miami today to discuss the Spanish club's latest offer. Although there is some resignation at Tottenham over Bale's likely departure, there are sticking points.

Madrid have had one offer in excess of £80 million ($156.5 million) rejected, with Levy keen on an up-front cash deal that would involve Madrid striker Alvaro Morata joining Tottenham.

Madrid have suggested Angel di Maria and Fabio Coentrao as makeweights, with Levy more attracted by Morata, who was the top scorer in Spain's winning team in the European Under-21 Championships.

Ronaldo reacted coldly when asked for his opinion on the prospect of the Welshman joining Real.

"It's not my place to comment on new players," said Ronaldo, who joined the Spanish side for £80 million four years ago.

Ronaldo was more effusive when asked about Isco, Asier Illarramendi and Dani Carvajal, the three players whom Real have already signed.

"I am very content with the new players," said Ronaldo. "They are all quality players who are going to bring a lot to the squad. They are all Spanish players and they know the league."

Although Tottenham did speak with Real at Bale's request, the situation has become increasingly tense. Bale has set his heart on joining Madrid but Tottenham have been angered at the aggressive and very public pursuit of their best player.

If Levy is not given any indication that Real are prepared to meet his demands over Morata or a straight cash deal, he may yet refuse to meet Perez.

There was a suggestion Bale could attempt to force through a move by refusing to train. A foot injury ruled him out of the match against Monaco on Sunday and the Spanish newspaper AS claimed Bale was "very upset" at the assertion from his manager, Andre Villas-Boas, that he will not be leaving.