Gareth Bale Hypes up Los Angeles Fans After Real Madrid Exit, LAFC Signing
Ex-Real Madrid star Gareth Bale has agreed to sign a one-year deal with Los Angeles FC, setting the world-renowned soccer player's welcome to the Major League Soccer (MLS).
According to CNN Sports, Bale will not sign as a designated player, and subsequently, his salary will count towards the cap of LAFC.
The Wales captain confirmed the move on social media on Saturday, posting a video of himself wearing an LAFC jersey and signaling his trademark heart celebration.
Bale signed for Madrid at a previous world record fee in 2013, winning five Champions Leagues, three La Loga titles, and one Copa Del Rey.
Bale's transfer to LAFC marks the second high-profile signing of the summer by the team. It was after veteran Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini confirmed his move to the franchise earlier this month.
Chiellini made a name for himself as one of the best center-backs in the game during a decorated 18-year spell with Juventus.
Both Bale and Chiellini will join officially on July 7 when the Secondary Transfer Window opens and could make their debuts the next day when LAFC faces city rivals LA Galaxy.
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Gareth Bale Transfers to LAFC
Gareth Bale's transfer to LAFC comes after Real Madrid decided not to extend Bale's deal with the Spanish team, making him a free agent.
According to MARCA, he then moved to the United States, hoping to play more regular competitive football ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
There is a list of reasons for Bale's decision to move to LAFC, including claims that regular football will prepare Bale for the World Cup.
The decision to host the tournament in Qatar in November has provided a chance for Bale to play regular football in Los Angeles and be match-fit for the tournament.
In addition, Bale court earns a lot of money in endorsement fees in Los Angeles, being one of the hubs of American commercialist.
Los Angeles also carries one of the biggest sports markets in North America. Reports projected that endorsement deals would be flooding Bale with his new location.
On top of that, football fans could reportedly extend Bale's career. Fans in LA have a completely different attitude and approach to following MLS teams, having no constant pressure on Gareth Bale to show his love for the team.
Gareth Bale
LAFC co-president John Thorrington said negotiations with Gareth Bale had not been a "financial conversation" and expects the deal to be finalized within 10 days.
As BBC reported, he cleared up that it was not about six months just for the World Cup, adding that they were always talking about the longer-term.
Sources claimed that since Bale would not be a designated player, his salary would be just over $1.6 million, MARCA reported.
It is believed to be a very low figure compared to what Bale received with Real Madrid, which is approximately $20.3 million.
The deal with LAFC includes a one-year extension until 2024, and within those 12 extra months, Gareth Bale could increase his salary with LAFC.
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This article is owned by Latin Post
Written by: Mary Webber
WATCH: Craig Burley Calls Gareth Bale to LAFC a 'Brilliant Transfer' - From ESPN UK
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