Gareth Bale will stay at Real Madrid despite speculation linking the Welshman with a move away, according to Spanish football expert Guillem Balague.

The Welshman, who has played just eight times in La Liga this season due to a spate of injuries, is believed to be surplus to requirements at the Bernabeu.

Speculation continues to link the former Tottenham Hotspur star with a move to Manchester United, a rumour which has persisted throughout his time in Spain.

However, Balague is adamant that both Real and Bale are content with the situation at present and neither party sees any need for change.

"Gareth Bale is somebody now that just needs to be continuously playing," Balague told Sky Sports News.

"Hopefully not being affected by injuries, actually if the goals come and the assists come and his presence is important, especially in the Champions League - remember that's the main target this season now - I don't think he will go anywhere.

"But, of course, that is not guaranteed for as long as we don't see a Gareth Bale with the same kind of stats we have seen in previous years - there will be a lot of rumours suggesting Real Madrid want to let him go or he wants to go.

"What I'm getting from his entourage is that there is no intention for Gareth Bale to leave Real... what I'm getting from Real is a guarded answer but it is like: 'Why would we get rid of him?' Of course, if injuries continue that situation may change but so far both parties are saying Gareth Bale is to stay."

Guangzhou Evergrande, Chelsea and former club Spurs are also said to be interested in the 28-year-old, who has won three Champions League trophies and a La Liga title with Los Blancos.