Gareth Bale-fronted consortium tables big-money offer for Cardiff City as Tottenham & Real Madrid legend looks to follow in Ryan Reynolds' & Tom Brady's footsteps

According to The Times, the bid was lodged recently following Cardiff’s relegation from the Championship to League One in May. However, Tan, who has overseen the club for over a decade and claims to have invested more than £200 million ($272m), has signalled no intention of accepting the offer. The proposal has been perceived by Tan’s camp as falling well below the club’s true value, particularly in light of the significant financial commitments made during his ownership.

Though expected to be turned down, the offer highlights the group’s serious intent and opens the door for potential future negotiations. The presence of American financial backers also underscores the viability of the consortium’s long-term plans, should Cardiff’s ownership situation shift.

Bale had expressed his passion for taking charge of Cardiff City, describing the potential acquisition as something deeply personal. Speaking to Sky Sports, the former Wales international revealed his long-standing connection to the club and said: "We are interested in getting Cardiff. It’s my home club, it’s where I grew up and my uncle used to play for them. To be involved with an ownership group would be a dream come true. It is a club close to my heart and I would love to be able to be a part of growing Cardiff and taking it to the Premier League where it belongs.

“I know how amazing the Welsh fans and Cardiff fans are. It would be amazing to try and do something together. We are trying to engage with Cardiff and more news will come out on that in the future, but hopefully we can get something done.”

Bale’s efforts are drawing parallels to recent high-profile club investments. Wrexham, under the stewardship of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence, and Birmingham City’s fortunes have also improved following investment by NFL icon Tom Brady. Such examples may serve to strengthen Bale’s case that superstar influence and commercial acumen can positively transform football clubs in the lower divisions.

As the ownership drama unfolds, Cardiff are preparing for life in League One after a hiatus of more than two decades. New manager Brian Barry-Murphy is now tasked with rallying a squad capable of earning promotion at the first attempt, and he will seek clarity on the ownership issue as the summer transfer market is already open.