Bale drops hint at Spurs stay by signing new three-year BT deal
SOUGHT-AFTER Tottenham star Gareth Bale has given the biggest indication yet that he is to reject the lure of a move to one of Europe’s top clubs this summer after signing a three-year deal to become an ambassador for BT Sport.
The new channel will broadcast 38 live Premier League games from next season and Bale is set to appear in an advertising campaign, as well as making regular guest appearances.
The Wales star has hit 26 goals for club and country this season and his sparkling form has attracted a host of admirers, including Real Madrid.
But Bale, who is contracted to Tottenham until 2016, looks set to be playing in the Premier League next year after building on his existing relationship with BT.
“A great deal has changed in my football career since my first partnership with BT and I am happy to extend that relationship for three years,” said the 23-year-old, who has previously promoted the Life’s a Pitch website and availability of Sky Sports channels via BT Vision.
“I am excited about the launch of BT Sport and happy to play my part in making it a big hit.”
WHAT IS BT SPORT?
■ BT Sport has acquired ESPN’s TV channels and will broadcast 38 live Premier League games, plus FA Cup and Europa League matches
■ Presenters include former BBC anchors Jake Humphrey and Clare Balding, plus former England rugby star Lawrence Dallaglio. Tottenham star Gareth Bale is to advertise the channel and appear as a guest
■ Will be based at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park broadcast centre in Stratford