Manchester United are allegedly ready to step up their interest in Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale, and are reportedly interested in signing the Welshman this month.

Bale, who has only made six appearances for Madrid this term after suffering calf and hamstring injuries, could be sold by club president Florentino Perez after failing to contribute to the Spanish side.

According to The Express, Manchester United could aim to land the forward in the current window after Bale rejected Old Trafford for the Bernabeu when leaving Tottenham Hotspur in 2013.

Should United make a move for the 28-year-old, Tottenham will have 72 hours to match the offer, as per the conditions of his move to Spain.

Bale has scored two goals and assisted another this season as Madrid sit 14 points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona.