Giggs: I would love to see Bale back in the Premier League

A return to the Premier League for Gareth Bale would excite the winger's countryman, Ryan Giggs, but the ex-Manchester United man doesn't foresee an exit from Real Madrid any time soon.

Plenty of English clubs have been linked with Bale, and Giggs believes Old Trafford would welcome the forward with open arms.

"He looks happy at Real Madrid," said the 43-year-old to BBC Wales Sport. "I don't think he's going anywhere at the moment.

"From a fan's point of view, it would be great to see him back in the Premier League.

"The United fans would love to see him at Old Trafford. You talk about the big clubs and United is up there. While he's happy there [Madrid], I can't see him leaving."

With Bale an essential part of his national side, Giggs previewed how Wales' crucial World Cup qualifier with Republic of Ireland will pan out when it takes place next month.

"You want to be going into that game with Gareth fully fit, scoring and playing well for Real Madrid," the former midfielder added.

"He's such a big player for Wales and Ireland wouldn't want him turning up in Dublin that night.

"He's always the one that can make the difference. He's done it time and time again and when the pressure's on him to produce, he produces."