Real Madrid are confident of winning the battle for Tottenham star Gareth Bale.

The Daily Express says Real intend to use their close partnership with Spurs to force through a move for Bale.

Real Madrid President, Florentino Perez, told website Inside Spanish Football: "The strong relationship and affinity between our two clubs has resulted in the cementing of a longer-term partnership."

Real have good working relationship with Spurs, with Perez helping to broker a deal for Luka Modric last summer.