Sir Alex Ferguson came close to bringing Gareth Bale to Manchester United but concerns over his defensive capabilities meant a deal was never finalised.
George Burley, a former Southampton manager, has revealed he held talks with his counterpart at a hotel about Bale, but they could not agree a fee.
'He was like a winger playing at full-back," Burley told The Athletic. 'Manchester United were interested in him.
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'I remember going to a hotel and speaking to Sir Alex and his chief executive.