Bale joined Spurs from Southampton and has over the past 12 months become a hit at White Hart Lane.
“We tried to sign him as a 16 or 17-year-old boy,” reflected the United chief.
“Southampton had a Scottish chief executive and George Burley was the manager.
“I don’t know the full circumstances but they didn’t accept our offer and I think they must have alerted Tottenham.”
The United boss added: “Bale has made the best contribution without a doubt. Eleven goals for a wide player is a really good return.”
