Former Spurs star Gareth Bale is reportedly leading a consortium that is in talks to buy League One club Cardiff City.
That's according to The Atheltic, who claim the ex-Wales international made contact with current Bluebirds owner Vincent Tan last month, sending a letter of intent to the current owner expressing his desire to buy the club along with financial figures.
However, Bale's approach was reportedly rejected, though that hasn't dampened any enthusiasm for a takeover at his hometown club having also been linked with fellow League One side Plymouth Argyle. The report from the Athletic states that, despite recent reports, Bale is not in the frame to buy the Pilgrims.
Cardiff were tipped to be a destination for Bale when the Wales superstar left Real Madrid in 2022, but would sign for LAFC and make 14 appearances before retiring after the World Cup in Qatar.
Bale is the latest high profile former player to have been tipped for a career in football ownership after former Spurs and Real star Luke Modric became a co-owner at Swansea City earlier this month.
If 35-year-old Bale were to acquire a majority sharehold at Cardiff City, it would see him take on his former teammate and battle for south Wales bragging rights between two of Wales' biggest clubs.
Bale is yet to speak about potential takeover plans, but is the latest high profile star to attach himself to an ownership group. NFL legend Tom Brady bought minority shares in Birmingham City in 2023, while 49ers Enterprises has a whole host of stars involved in their takeover at Leeds United, with Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas part of the group that helped the Whites win promotion.
Unlike Bale, Modrid has spoken about his involvement at Swansea City and believes his expertise at the highest level will stand the Championship side in good stead.
"This is an exciting opportunity," the Croatian said. "Swansea has a strong identity, an incredible fanbase, and the ambition to compete at the highest level.
"Playing at the highest level, I believe I can provide my experience to the club. My goal is to support the club’s growth in a positive way and to help to build an exciting future."
Tom Gorringe, Swansea CEO, also added, "I am excited that Luka has come on board as an investor and co-owner. There is no better role model in the game for our players, from the academy right through to the first team.
"His endorsement of our ambition and willingness to support us on our journey will be instrumental as we aim to continue to improve our results on and off the pitch.
"In our conversations, he has demonstrated his passion for the club, his knowledge of how we are performing, and a genuine passion to help us improve. I am really looking forward to working with him more closely to drive us forward."