Tottenham Hotspur are keen on bringing Gareth Bale back to the Premier League in a huge move, seven season after he departed for Real Madrid. He netted more than 100 goals for the Spanish giants in 251 matches, winning a raft of trophies including two La Ligas and four Champions League titles.
The old adage is that you never go back, that it wouldn’t be the same. In recent English football history that has been the case in some circumstances but there have been incidents of success, even if it is short-lived.
We have taken a look at some of the hits and misses of players returning to a former club. Click and scroll to find out how certain stars got on.
5. David Batty - Leeds United
Batty was part of two excellent Leeds sides. He was a member of the 1992 league title winning side before moving to Blackburn Rovers where he won the Premier League. He would return to Leeds to finish his career, playing a key role in the club’s Champions League run. Photo: Jamie McDonald
6. Billy Sharp - Sheffield United
The striker is currently in his third spell at Bramall Lane. The current stint is by far his most successful in terms of run of games and goals. Over the years he has proven to be a fine Championship striker. Photo: Pool
7. Benjani - Portsmouth
Moving to Pompey in 2006 and helping the club stay in the Premier League, Benjani became a hugely popular figure. However, the success of his first spell could not be replicated when he returned in 2011. Photo: Ian Walton
8. Carlton Palmer - Sheffield Wednesday
Palmer was a stalwart for the Owls in the 90s, playing nearly 250 games. He won all 18 of his England caps during his time at Hillsborough. He returned for a loan spell at the end of his career. Photo: Craig Prentis