Gareth Bale has previously been linked with a possible move to MLS and now the Welsh international is all but set to move to California for the next chapter of his career.
LAFC is closing a deal to sign Bale on a one-year contract until June 2023, The Athletic reported Saturday. Bale’s contract will also include an option to extend his stay at Banc of California Stadium until January 2025.
He is the second major acquisition by LAFC this year, following Italian international defender Giorgio Chiellini.
The 32-year-old Bale was previously linked with both LAFC, L.A. Galaxy, and D.C. United earlier this year. Bale is preparing for involvement in the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Wales, which will be the country’s first World Cup appearance in 64 years.
A former Southampton academy product, Bale totaled 55 goals with Tottenham in 203 combined appearances for the English Premier League club. Bale joined Real Madrid in September 2013 on a €100.8 million world-record deal from Tottenham and went on to win five UEFA Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, and one Spanish Copa del Rey trophy.
Injuries and a lack of form hampered Bale’s playing time for Real Madrid over the past season, totaling only seven appearances for the Spanish club. He also netted 16 goals in 34 appearances on loan with Tottenham during the 2020-21 campaign, in search of consistent playing time.
LAFC currently sits top of the Western Conference and has several top MLS talents on its roster including Carlos Vela, Kellyn Acosta, and Ilie Sanchez.