A consortium led by Gareth Bale has made a formal offer, believed to be around £40 million, to buy Cardiff City. Bale, the former Real Madrid and Wales star, described the prospect of owning his hometown club as "a dream come true". The offer faces resistance from current owner Vincent Tan, who has invested over £200 million in the club.

Bale's group reportedly made an initial inquiry earlier in June, which was rejected by Tan. Despite the rejection, Bale remains optimistic about reaching a deal. He emphasized his emotional connection to the club, where he grew up and his uncle played. Bale aims to rebuild Cardiff and help them return to the Premier League.

The bid was submitted after Cardiff's relegation from the Championship to League One in May. Tan and his colleagues consider the offer too low, given the Malaysian billionaire's investment in the club. Sources indicate that the proposal did not even reach the boardroom for formal consideration.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Bale expressed his desire to be part of growing Cardiff and taking them to the Premier League. He acknowledged the passion of the Welsh and Cardiff fans and hoped to achieve something together. Bale was previously linked to a takeover bid for Plymouth Argyle.

Cardiff City has not issued a public response. The Times reported that Bale is backed by US investors in the venture. A £40 million bid would suggest that the new owners would assume the club's debt. Bale retired from professional football in January 2023 after playing for LAFC. His involvement in club ownership would mark a new chapter in his post-playing career.