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With reports Gareth Bale could return to England, former club Tottenham may have a decision to make as Manchester United and Manchester City lurk.

Gareth Bale’s future has taken an uncertain twist amid reports he is keen on a return to the Premier League.

Tuttomercatoweb exclusively reported last night that Bale’s representatives are seeking a return to England, despite Real Madrid’s desire to extend his contract until 2021.

Manchester United and Manchester City are reportedly keen, but they will have to get in line.

That is because his former club Tottenham Hotspur have a first option to re-sign him, according to a report in The Mail, which means: “If Tottenham match a Premier League club’s bid for Gareth Bale then Real Madrid are contractually obliged to accept their offer.”

The catch is that from that point, Spurs have 72 hours to complete a deal.

All of this means if United or City are pushing to bring Bale back and talking to his representatives, then Spurs need to be on alert, and could have a big decision to make this summer.

They will need to decided if they are willing to, or even able to, commit the type of money required to re-sign a player they sold for £86 million, and Bale’s fee would likely remain in that price range.

The Welshman can add to his profile with an outstanding Euro 2016, and while he is a player Spurs would dearly love to welcome back, it certainly won’t be easy.

A deal would mean the club smashing their transfer record, the fee of £30 million paid for Erik Lamela, and with a new stadium to pay for, Spurs could have to waive their option and let City or United spend the money, and trust in their current side, who are above both Manchester clubs in the table.

In other news, Report: Crystal Palace could sell 24-year-old to finance £25m signing