Paulinho: The midfielder says he hopes that Gareth Bale will stay at Spurs

Bale has been the subject of a summer-long transfer saga linking him with a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid, despite Spurs' insistence that he is not for sale.

There have been reports of a record-breaking bid of £85million and Paulinho admits that he is uncertain as to whether Bale will still be a part of Andre Villas Boas' squad this season.

But the Brazilian, who arrived from Corinthians earlier this summer, admits he would love to play alongside Bale at White Hart Lane.

"I sincerely don't know, but I think this is something more private for Bale, he doesn't tell me anything," he told Fox Sports Brazil.

"But I hope he continues with us, so that he can help us. He is a great player and achieved great stats last season, so I hope he stays with us."

The Brazilian impressed on his full Spurs debut, a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace, and he says he is delighted with his start to life in England.

"I am very happy with the win in the Premier League and also for getting the Man of the Match trophy on my debut," the 25-year old said to ESPN Brazil.