Former Tottenham star Gareth Bale has been the subject of a possible blockbuster move to Wrexham after a series of social media interactions with co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
The National League champions will participate in the English Football League for the first time in 15 years in August after sealing promotion last weekend.
Preparations for next season are well underway, with the Dragons expected to attempt to re-sign Ben Foster for their return to League Two. However, five-time Champions League winner Bale now seems to be on their radar.
READ MORE: Wrexham owner Ryan Reynolds drops huge Gareth Bale hint after retirement U-turn proposal
Bale has been out of the game since announcing his retirement in January. The ex-Spurs man called time on his career following Wales' early World Cup exit in Qatar.
Following Wrexham's proposal to join forces with Reynolds and McElhenney, football.london takes a look at everything Bale has said on his retirement, Wrexham and his career.
Transfer response
When asked about coming out of retirement for one last dance, Bale was firm in his reaction. Speaking at the UK Sport Industry Awards 2023 he said: "No I don’t think so," when asked about the matter of Wrexham,
"I think I was looking more for a free round of golf off Rob," he joked.
"I'm sure we'll have a chat and a joke but I'm quite happy where I am. I'm spending a lot of time with my kids, my wife, time that I've lost so much over the years being committed to football. I'm just enjoying family life and playing some golf."
Bale added that he hadn't been missing football either. "No. I’m enjoying my time away," he said. "I started at a young age and felt the time was right."
Retirement message
Bale announced his retirement at the start of the year after his short stint with MLS side LAFC. In a statement posted to Twitter confirming his decision, Bale wrote: "After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football.
"I feel incredibly fortunate to have realised my dream of playing the sport I love. It has truly given me some of the best moments of my life. The highest of highs over 17 seasons, that will be impossible to replicate, no matter what the next chapter has in store for me.
"From my very first touch at Southampton to my last with LAFC and everything in between, shaped a club career that I have an immense pride and gratitude for. Playing for and captaining my country 111 times has truly been a dream come true.
"To show my gratitude to all of those that have played their part along this journey, feels like an impossibility. I feel indebted to many people for helping to change my life and shape my career in a way I couldn't have ever dreamed of when I first started out at 9 years old.
"To my previous clubs, Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and finally LAFC. All of my previous managers and coaches, back room staff, teammates, all the dedicated fans, my agents, my amazing friends and family, the impact you have had is immeasurable.
"My parents and my sister, without your dedication in those early days, without such a strong foundation, I wouldn't be writing this statement right now, so thank you for putting me on this path and for your unwavering support.
"My wife and my children, your love and support has carried me through. Right beside me for all the highs and lows, keeping me grounded along the way. You inspire me to be better, and to make you proud.
"So, I move on with anticipation to the next stage of my life. A time of change and transition, an opportunity for a new adventure..."
Wrexham notice
On Tuesday, Always Sunny in Philadelphia star McElhenney posted a video of Bale congratulating him on his success with the Welsh club. The ex-Spurs man said: "Hi, Rob. Just want to congratulate you on your promotion and everything you're doing at Wrexham."
McElhenney captioned the video with a cheeky stab in the dark hoping to convince the Welshman to come out of retirement and join the Dragons. "Hey, @GarethBale11, let's play golf, where I totally won't spend four hours trying to convince you to un-retire for one last magical season."
LAFC League Two hint
After moving to the States in June 2022, Bale insisted the move came at the right time. “I am extremely excited for this move to LAFC,” Bale said.
“This is the right place for me and my family and the right time in my career, and I cannot wait to get started working with the team and getting ready to win more trophies in Los Angeles.”
Now, Bale, 33, has been plying his trade in golf and a return to football in his native country could be another move to come at the right time.
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