Gareth Bale’s next move appears to be one that will take him across the Atlantic for a stint in MLS.
MLSsoccer.com reported Saturday morning that LAFC will sign the Wales star to a one-year deal in the coming days, and expect to be able to field him when the summer transfer window opens on July 7. That would allow LAFC to give Bale—and Juventus legend Giorgio Chiellini, who recently joined the club—their debuts against the LA Galaxy, as El Tráfico is scheduled for July 8.
Bale’s deal will reportedly not require a Designated Player spot, a rather stunning turn of events given his profile and the fact that as a free agent, he would join LAFC on a free transfer. According to The Athletic, Bale could extend his deal through the end of the 2024 MLS season, and if that option is taken, his contract would make him a DP.
LAFC would be hoping to add Bale to an attack that already has Carlos Vela, but the question of the Mexican star’s status is still open. ESPN’s Taylor Twellman reported Saturday that Vela had re-signed with LAFC, but the club has made no announcement as of yet.
Bale was previously linked to an MLS move with D.C. United, with the capital club holding his MLS discovery rights at one point. However, talks fizzled earlier this month and according to Twellman, those rights ended up with Inter Miami, who are not pursuing Bale and thus are prepared to trade those rights to LAFC.
Getafe also claimed to have been offered a shot at signing him via his agent, though Bale laughed that suggestion off almost immediately. Signs had been pointing towards Bale signing a short-term deal with his hometown club Cardiff City, with fitness heading into the World Cup his objective.
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