Bale intent on continuing his 'education' with Tottenham

Spurs' determination to hang onto their prize asset will almost certainly be tested when the transfer window reopens, especially after Inter president Massimo Moratti confirmed his interest in the 21-year-old following Wednesday night's Champions League tie at the San Siro.

But Bale believes there is no better place than White Hart Lane for him to continue improving, crediting manager Harry Redknapp for his transformation from club jinx to hat-trick hero in just two years.

Bale's early Tottenham career saw him play a record 24 Premier League matches without being on the winning side.

But Redknapp's decision to move the Wales star from left-back to left wing has made him one of the most sought-after young players around.

Spurs rebuffed an approach for Bale during the last transfer window and it would be no surprise to see an avalanche of mega-money bids in January.

Bale is refusing to contemplate plying his trade anywhere but White Hart Lane, saying: "I am just happy playing week-in, week-out for Tottenham and learning my football here.

"I don't take any interest in what is written about me because I think it's best to keep your feet on the ground, go to training and learn, and also learn in the games every week.

"Hopefully, there is still a lot more to come from me. I am still young and still learning and I want to keep getting better and better."

Spurs have refused to confirm the identity of the club who made an approach for Bale in the summer, but Moratti left no doubt about Inter's interest after watching the winger's incredible treble on Wednesday night.

He said: "We have followed him in the past; you can see why.

"Now? After those three goals, he will cost a lot more."

Bale's second-half exploits could not mask Spurs' defensive problems, with their calamitous start against the European champions seeing them 3-0 and a man down after just 14 minutes, and four goals behind at half-time.

Inter scored through Javier Zanetti, Samuel Eto'o twice, including a penalty after Heurelho Gomes had been sent off, and Dejan Stankovic.

Their display appeared to support claims the holders are playing a more attacking brand of football under new boss Rafael Benitez than they did in winning the treble under Jose Mourinho last season.