Tottenham bad-luck charm Gareth Bale wanted by Roma

Gareth Bale has emerged as a shock target for Roma - despite his embarrassing reputation as Tottenham's bad-luck charm.

Left-back Bale, 19, is wanted by Serie A giants Roma on a loan deal to provide competition for ex-Liverpool star John Arne Riise.

Harry Redknapp is probably ready to piggy-back Bale to the nearest airport as the teenager has still NEVER won a Premier League game with Spurs.

Since arriving in May 2007 for a £5million down-payment to Southampton, the Wales international's cursed spell has been ravaged with injuries.

Amazingly, he has only managed a pitiful nine draws from 24 Premier League outings under bosses Martin Jol, Juande Ramos and Redknapp. Bale last tasted a league win with Saints against Southend the month he moved to White Hart Lane.

But now Roma, who finished sixth in Serie A last season, are ready to offer him an escape route. Redknapp is likely to seek a cash deal rather than a loan but the chance to get a player off the wage bill will appeal to Spurs.

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has also eyed Bale, but Roma could be his destination as he bids to end a staggering two-year wait for a win.

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