Spurs sign Gareth Bale

Tottenham have confirmed the signing of Wales left-back Gareth Bale from Southampton for an undisclosed fee.

The 17-year-old was close to joining Spurs during the last transfer window but stayed at St Mary’s and helped George Burley’s side into the Championship play-offs.

Manchester United had expressed an interest in the Wales teenager in January, with boss Alex Ferguson admitting Spurs were ahead of them in the race to him.