Gareth Bale agrees move to MLS side Los Angeles FC

Wales captain Gareth Bale is set to join Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC on an initial one-year deal.

The 32-year-old is leaving Real Madrid this summer as a free agent after nine years in Spain when he won 16 major trophies, including five Champions Leagues, three La Ligas and one Copa del Rey.

Bale had been linked with a move to home town club Cardiff City but has instead agreed a move to the United States.

It is understood Bale – reportedly having earned around £600,000 per week at Real Madrid – had several options on the table, with former club Tottenham Hotspur and big-spending Newcastle United also suggested as potential destinations.

Speaking while on recent international duty with Wales, Bale said: “I don’t really know if the standard makes too much of a difference. A football game is a football game.

“I feel like I’ll never really lose my quality on the ball. I guess it’s a conversation to be had.

“I need time to think what’s the best move for me, my family, my kids, and hopefully we’ll sort that over the summer. I have options.”

Bale made only made seven appearances for Real last season and spoke recently about the need for games before the World Cup finals in Qatar that begin in November.

“​​I just want to be playing going into the World Cup to be as fit as I can,” he said. “Once I get back into playing regular football, my body will get more robust and a bit better.

Gareth Bale (left) celebrates with his Wales team-mates after qualifying for the Qatar World Cup following victory in the play-off final against Ukraine at Cardiff City Stadium. PA

“It’s very difficult when you're in and out of a team to get a rhythm in terms of your fitness and health.

“Any player will tell you, playing week-in week-out,