Gary Neville tells Manchester United: 'Swap David de Gea for Gareth Bale'

Gary Neville has encouraged former club Manchester United to do business with Real Madrid for goalkeeper David de Gea - but only if they get Gareth Bale in return.

Madrid-born De Gea has reportedly already agreed personal terms with the Spanish giants over a big-money return to the capital, having joined United from Atletico in 2011.

The Red Devils have previously been linked with out-of-form Bale, who has endured a testing second season at the Santiago Bernabeu after incurring the wrath of their fans.

Consequently, Neville feels it is logical that manager Louis van Gaal use the Blancos' pursuit of the 24-year-old to their advantage and demand the Welshman in return.

"Real Madrid are particularly aggressive," he told Sky Sports News.

"They have been previously and once a player only has a year left on his contract Manchester United have a decision to make if Real do come for him, as it looks like they will.

"Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool will all want Gareth Bale. So if you are going to give Real a player I think it would make sense to try and get Bale and steal him in return for De Gea."

The Spaniard is contracted to the Old Trafford club until 2016, while Bale has another four years to run on his existing deal.