'We hope he leaves soon': Zinedine Zidane confirms Gareth Bale is close to leaving Real Madrid

After being left out of Saturday's International Champions Cup clash against Bayern Munich, Zinedine Zidane confirms Gareth Bale is close to leaving Real Madrid.

Asked why Bale was left out of the squad on Saturday, Zidane told reporters: "Bale did not play because he is very close to leaving. 

"We hope he leaves soon, it would be best for everyone. We are working on his transfer to a new team," according to Goal.com.

The manager, however, explained that its the club’s decision to let the former Spurs star leave. 

"I have nothing personal against him, but there comes a time where things are done because they must be done, I have to make decisions, we have to change," he added. 

"The exit is the coach's decision, and also of the player, who knows the situation. 

"The situation will change, I do not know if in 24 or 48 hours, but it will, and it's a good thing for everyone." 

Zidane had earlier said that he has no problem with Gareth Bale staying back with the club.

"Him (Bale) staying is not a problem. I can't say that the player is a problem. He has a contract, he is here and what I can say is that anything could happen. I have to respect all the players, he is with us and he is a Real Madrid player," Goal.com quoted Zidane as saying.

For long, there have been rumours which suggest that the club wants to sell Welshman. The 30-year-old - who has three seasons remaining on his contract - has been linked to former club Tottenham, Manchester United and Saturday’s opponent Bayern. 

Bayern's midfielder Thiago Alcantara also said before the match that Bale would be welcomed with the German giants, who are looking to replace club legends Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery.  

"If Gareth (Bale) wants to come, any top player who wants to come here is welcome,” Thiago said at a pre-match press conference.