What we know so far

Wales’ most capped and highest scoring men’s international, Bale was initially linked with a takeover at Plymouth Argyle.

With owner Simon Hallet looking for fresh investment, Bale was said to be the face of a USA-based private equity group that had entered early talks over a deal.

Some sources at Plymouth played down those reports with no public utterance from Bale or the unnamed other members of the consortium.

That changed, though, when it emerged the group had written to Cardiff owner Tan making it clear they would be keen on taking control at the club recently relegated from the Championship.

There was no formal bid but the proposal did make clear what the group would be looking to pay for a shareholding.

Cardiff’s board became aware of the approach but only after it had been dismissed pretty swiftly by Tan. As a result, there was no boardroom discussion or invitation for further talks.

BBC Sport Wales has been told a second approach was made to Tan but was met with the same short shrift.