Ancelotti: Madrid in Bale talks

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed Real Madrid’s pursuit of Gareth Bale continues, but has ruled out Luka Modric’s inclusion in any deal.

Reports are that Madrid are continuing to push to sign Tottenham’s Bale, with a world record bid believed to have been placed on the table and provisionally accepted.

 “At this time the club is talking to find a solution to his case and we will see what happens. But that’s already known,” the 54-year-old commented.

 “Do we need Bale? The squad is very good and we have quality, experience, youth…it is very difficult to talk about Bale, because he is not a Madrid player at the moment.

“But we’ll see what happens. I am very happy with the staff that we have and the work that we are doing.

“I have not spoken to Bale, because I do not talk to players from other teams and it does not seem right to talk to him.”

Yesterday reports were that Spurs were open to negotiations, with the prospect of former midfielder Modric being included in a possible deal.

 “It is not true that Modric would be included in a deal for Bale. We have not discussed anything for a player leaving.

“It is not true that Modric will leave. He is a very important player for us. Modric will play with us this season.

“Increased competition for places? It is normal. It’s a good motivation for all to train well because there is a lot of competition.

“We all know that we have many games to play and all the players will have a chance to play.”

The Italian turned his attention to preseason plans so far.

“The players are very professional, unsurprisingly. It is good to start working with seriousness and professionalism.

“We have had a little issue with Illarramendi, but he has started to run. Varane and Xabi’s recoveries are going well. We have had no problems so far.

“Will there be many changes? Our goal is not to bring in further players. We want to use this squad to the maximum and we need to play together. Above all we want a team that plays good football.

“Kaka? He is working hard individually. He will improve. He needs time because he has to improve the strength in his legs. We all have much confidence that he will improve soon.”

Tags Ancelotti Bale Modric tottenham
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