Manchester United's run for Gareth Bale gets a boost

Bengaluru: Manchester United have been given a boost in their long-term pursuit of Gareth Bale after Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane admitted he could not vouch for the striker's continured association with the Spanish Club.

United boss Jose Mourinho has confirmed he was after a wide attacker, as one of two slots he is looking to fill before the August 31 deadline, with Bale his first-choice target, reported the Mirror.

Mourinho is also still hoping to tie up a deal for his former Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic before the new season starts, with United willing to pay £35m for him.

Real's pursuit of Monaco's teen sensation Kylian Mbappe has intensified speculation that one of their front three - Bale, Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo - could leave this summer.

Zidane refused to rule out one of his famed three attackers leaving this summer, with Bale seen as the most expendable.

"I hope they all stay for this season," said Zidane. "I hope everyone remains. I want everyone who is here now to stay, but anything can happen right up until August 31."

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