‘Gareth Bale will be the No1 target for top European clubs’

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini believes Tottenham winger Gareth Bale will be one of the hottest prospects in this summer’s transfer window.

Mancini says Bale will be seen as the “strongest target” for Europe’s leading clubs should Spurs decide to cash in on the mercurial 21-year-old.

The Italian manager’s comments come after reports in Italy suggested that Juventus are plotting a summer swoop for the Wales international as they seek to build a squad strong enough to end Inter Milan’s Serie A dominance.

“Last year Bale had already proved his value but his career had not yet taken off,” said Mancini. “Now you would need a lot of money [to sign him]. He is a very expensive player. Certainly, Juve with Bale would gain a lot.

“Moreover, what is certain is that if Tottenham decides to put him on the market, Bale would be the strongest target in the summer.”

The former Inter boss added: “Perhaps he [Bale] is the only player who is not a striker that can make a difference.

City currently lie second in the Premier League table after picking up 10 points out of a possible 12 over the festive period. Their Champions League rivals, Tottenham, are six points off the pace in fourth spot and Mancini highlighted Bale’s influence on the fortunes of the North London side.

“Without him, Tottenham loses 50 per cent of their potential,” added the 46-year-old.

Bale has sparkled for Spurs this season, scoring 11 in 21 league appearances and producing two memorable Champions League displays against reigning European champions Inter Milan.