Tottenham Win Bale Battle as Madrid Give up on Summer Transfer - Report

Real Madrid have reportedly admitted defeat in their attempt to sign Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Gareth Bale this summer.

The La Liga giants have been heavily linked with a big-money move for the Welshman in this window, with even the player's agent hinting that a transfer is possible. However, according to Marca, Spurs have kept their word of holding on to the 23-year-old this summer and have succeeded in fending off the interest from Spain.

The report claims Tottenham have rebuffed Madrid's latest approach for Bale and Los Blacos president Florentino Perez has finally conceded defeat in the chase and has now decided to put the approach for the talismanic winger on hold till next summer.

The Spanish newspaper also notes Bale's situation is not similar to his former team-mate Luka Modric in anyway. The Croatian had managed to force through a transfer from White Hart Lane to the Bernabeu last summer, by repeatedly expressing his desire to leave and not turning up for some of the pre-season training sessions.

However, Bale has done nothing to put Spurs on the back foot and help Madrid force a negotiation. The Southampton product also has no release clause like La Liga players, will not submit a transfer request and is content to stay in England for another season, despite his club failing to qualify for the Champions League once again.

Bale is due in north London next week for pre-season training. According to The Sun, Madrid are determined to clinch a deal with Tottenham for their long-time target next season, while the Mirror reports the player is even set to sign a new, lucrative contract at White Hart Lane that will see his price tag rise further next summer.

The Welsh international, had scored 21 goals from 34 Premier League appearances for Spurs last season, clinching both the PFA Player of the Year and Young Player awards. Brazil midfielder Paulinho, who joined the north London club this week, had stated the club's decision to hold on to Bale and manager Andre Villas-Boas convinced him to sign for them.