ChampionshipCardiff City are targeting released Real Madrid attacker Gareth Bale.

Wales captain Bale led his country to a first World Cup in 64 years after the 1-0 play-off final triumph over war-torn Ukraine.

Bale, 32, is on the hunt for a new team when his Real Madrid contract expires at the end of this month to keep himself ticking over before the November finals in Qatar

When Bale was asked about his options at club level on Saturday, he grinned and said: "I've got loads".

MLS clubs have already declared an interest in the forward but it is believed Tottenham are not considering Bale for a third spell in North London.

Another of Bale's ex-clubs Southampton have also been linked with Wales' record goalscorer.

But Bale's hometown club of Cardiff have put themselves in the frame with Bluebirds chairman Mehmet Dalman set to lead negotiations over the audacious transfer.

Five-time Champions League winner Bale was on a whopping £650,000-a-week at Real so whenever he ends up he will need to take a hefty pay cut, says The Sun.