Real Madrid's pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur star Gareth Bale is a "commercial stunt", according to Arrigo Sacchi.
The Wales international has been repeatedly linked with a mega-money move to the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, with the North London outfit thought to have slapped a £100m price tag on their prized asset.
If successful in their pursuit, Sacchi - who spent a year as the Blancos' sporting-director - believes that the acquisition of the 24-year-old will be due to his nationality rather than his on-the-field exploits.
He told Meridiano: "I think the Bale signing would be a commercial operation. Madrid have always wanted to sign a British player because of sponsorship."
Manchester United have reportedly entered the race for the Welshman's signature, with boss David Moyes said to be prepared to offload Mexico international Javier Hernandez as a make-weight in the deal.
Shane Callaghan
