Gareth Bale expresses gratitude to "incredible" Tottenham Hotspur fans

New Real Madrid signing Gareth Bale has paid tribute to the Tottenham Hotspur supporters following his switch from White Hart Lane to the Santiago Bernabeu.

The transfer saga, which began in May, came to a close yesterday when the Spanish giants confirmed the arrival of the Wales international on a six-year deal for a reported world-record £85m fee.

Bale, who is undergoing a medical in the Spanish capital, wrote on Twitter today: "Thanks to both @SouthamptonFC and @SpursOfficial for helping me to reach this point in my career... two very special clubs.

"To all the Spurs fans, your support the last 6 years has been incredible and I'll never forget it, thank you #COYS."

Bale is due to be presented to the Madrid fans for the first time at the Bernabeu this afternoon.