Saints ready to break bank for Bale

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Saints chairman Michael Wilde has offered Bale, 17, a new deal until 2009 in a desperate move to keep him at St Mary's as interest for the Welsh international mounts.

Tottenham's bid of £3million was the first to be received before Manchester United followed with an improved offer of £5million but both where quickly rejected by the Championship club.

Southampton, who value Bale at £7million pounds, have also received inquiries from Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle but are keen to hold on to their prized asset.

Manager George Burley said: "Gareth has already said he wants to stay and we want to keep him for as long as possible."

Bale has just 18 months to run on his present deal and if he turns down the offer of a new contract, the club may be forced to sell as his transfer value will drop dramatically.

Left-back Bale is a former roommate of Theo Walcott who was sold to Arsenal during last year's January transfer window for £12million.