Gareth Bale set to join MLS side on a free transfer

Bale is heading to the US

Gareth Bale is set to join Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC (LAFC) on a free transfer according to reports in the United States. Bale is currently a free agent after leaving Real Madrid at the end of the season. The deal is considered a major coup for LAFC as they will not have to use up one of their designated player spots, allowing them to have one slot remaining still. https://twitter.com/fabrizioromano/status/1540714724991459330?s=21&t=uUqWtaZNHAa2yIlV-BcllA During his time at Madrid Bale won five Champions League titles, four Club World Cups, three La Liga titles and three Spanish Cups, scoring 106 goals in 258 appearances for Los Blancos. The Welshman is expected to sign a one-year deal and the move will be seen as a chance to allow him to build up a regular amount of game time and improve his fitness ahead of leading Wales at their first World Cup finals since 1958 this winter. Many had expected the 32-year-old to remain in Europe after having offers from home club Cardiff City as well as reported interest in Spain from Atletico Madrid and Getafe, however the Welshman has opted to move across the pond.

Bale could make debut against city rivals

Bale will link up alongside former Juventus and Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini, who made the move to the US and will play for the side that are city rivals of Zlatan Ibrahimovic's former club, LA Galaxy. LAFC currently top the Supporters’ Shield table with 30 points after 15 games and that is without Bale or Chiellini making an appearance. Both players can officially be registered from July 7, when the transfer window opens, meaning they could both be in contention to play in LA's fixture against big rivals LA Galaxy the following day. Related links:

• Gareth Bale: Every player will tell you there are way too many games
• Gareth Bale ‘offered to’ Madrid-based Getafe after leaving Real Madrid
• Gareth Bale given warm send-off during Real Madrid trophy parade