Gareth Bale agreed to return to Tottenham after growing tired waiting for Manchester United to firm up their interest, it has been revealed.

ESPN says Bale was a viable option for United.

The club told the now-Tottenham star that if a move for Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho fell through he would be high on their list of back-up options.

It is understood that Bale was keen on that move, but after a proposal from Tottenham was then presented, he decided he couldn't wait any longer for United.

Instead the Real Madrid forward completed a move to his old side in north London, where he will stay for the season on a loan deal.