Cardiff looking to woo Galactico Bale

Cardiff City are reportedly in the process of making an audacious bid to sign Wales captain Gareth Bale.

The BBC reports that Bluebirds chairman Mehmet Dalman has flown into the United Kingdom to lead negotiations with Bale's representatives - the 32-year-old now available on a free transfer after leaving Real Madrid, where he won five Champions League titles. 

On Sunday, Bale's deflected free-kick helped Wales record a 1-0 win over Ukraine to book the Dragons' spot alongside England in Group B at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

A possible move to the MLS or a return to former club Tottenham have also been mooted, but Cardiff are believed to be a credible option for Bale after his departure from the Bernabeu.

Although born in Cardiff, Bale has never played club football in Wales, but the prospect of trying to lead the Bluebirds back into the Premier League may appeal, particularly given his focus on leading Wales to their first World Cup for 64 years.

In Madrid, Bale earned £600,000 per week, but he is reportedly open to taking a significant pay cut.

Cardiff are yet to comment on any potential move for Wales' talisman, who said that he has "loads" of options after his country's play-off victory over Ukraine.