Real Madrid assistant coach Zinedine Zidane has been telling Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy how to run his club.

In an attempt to ratchet up the pressure on Levy to part with Gareth Bale, Zidane has demanded the chairman allow the Welshman to speak with Real.

He said: "If he has expressed a desire to join Madrid then Tottenham should give him permission to speak with us. The chance to play for Real Madrid might only come around once in a player's lifetime and it is understandable that Gareth doesn't want to miss out.

"Last season Gareth was on the same level as Ronaldo and Messi. Those are the sort of players who win you Champions Leagues and League titles.

"Gareth is already one of the finest players in Europe and has everything needed to become the best player in the world. It is a bit of a cliche but it is true you become a better player playing with better players."