After almost two months of speculation and negotiation, Madrid and Spurs both announced the transfer on Sunday evening.

Madrid announced on their website: “Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur have reached an agreement for the transfer of Gareth Bale, who will be contracted to the club for the next six seasons.”

The 24-year-old, who scored 31 goals for club and country last term, admits he could not afford to turn down the chance of playing for the nine-time European champions.