Up-and-down Real stint
Bale, 30, has been on the books of recently-dethroned European champions Real Madrid since the summer of 2013.
However, as has been widely-covered in the media, the Welshman’s time at the Bernabeu has proven far from straightforward.
Despite having played in a key role in his side’s 4 Champions League triumphs since his arrival in the Spanish capital, showcasing his world-class abilities with countless stunning goals and assists, the story of Bale’s career has long-been the explosive wide-man’s injury troubles.
The former Tottenham standout has managed over 30 La Liga starts just once over the course of his 6 years with Real.
The 2016/17 and 2017/18 seasons combined, meanwhile, saw Bale start in less than half of Los Blancos’ league outings, after struggling with a series of persistent calf and ankle problems.
Zidane returns
And the 2018/19 campaign saw Bale once again in and out of the starting XI in Madrid.
However, significantly, even when fit, the Welshman’s performances regularly left a lot to be desired.
Zinedine Zidane’s return to the hotseat at the Bernabeu in March, meanwhile, subsequently saw Bale’s game-time dip even further.
This came to a head back in May, when, in potentially the Welshman’s final competitive outing in a Real jersey, Zidane opted to leave Bale on the bench for the entirety of his side’s 2-0 final-day La Liga defeat to Real Betis.
‘Hope he leaves soon’
And, though speculation surrounding the future of the experienced wide-man had somewhat died down of late, Zidane last weekend moved to make clear once-and-for-all that he has absolutely no intention of utilising Bale for the upcoming campaign:
Bale did not play because he is very close to leaving.
We hope he leaves soon. It would be best for everyone. We are working on his transfer to a new team.
I have nothing personal against him, but there comes a time where things are done because they must be done, I have to make decisions. We have to change.
The exit is the coach’s decision, and also of the player, who knows the situation.
The situation will change, I do not know if in 24 or 48 hours, but it will, and it’s a good thing for everyone.
China bound
As such, it had since been viewed as only a matter of time before Bale’s Real exit was confirmed.
And, as per the aforementioned report from Marca this evening, an announcement now appears imminent.
This comes amid claims that Bale is on the verge of signing for Chinese Super League outfit Jiangsu Suning.
The Southampton youth product has reportedly agreed on a 3-year deal with Jiangsu, worth 22 million Euro-per-season (£20 million).
It is even suggested that the transfer could be completed within the coming hours.
One aspect which remains unclear, however, is the fee involved, or, for that matter, if there even is one.