Rio Ferdinand announced that he left TNT -Sport in May after more than a decade in the role, because he tries to pursue personal projects and Gareth Bale has been drawn up as his successor
TNT Sports reportedly agreed a deal with former Tottenham and Real Madrid star Gareth Bale to become one of their most important experts for the season after the departure of Rio Ferdinand.
The broadcaster was looking for new experts after Ferdinand announced that he would resign from his recurring role in May after ten years.
Ferdinand has been one of their most recognizable faces on TNT during Premier League, Champions League and Europa League matches and is always present since he came to the previous name BT Sport of the channel in 2015.
The Legend of Manchester United said he wanted to experience a new chapter and concentrate on his own YouTube channel Rio Ferdinand -Gifts, as well as his other business interests.
TNT has now taken their step in finding Ferdinand's long-term successor by securing five-time Champions League winner Bale as their next Big-admitted Pundit, according to The Guardian.
Bale accompanies his former Tottenham teammate Peter Crouch and Chelsea legend Joe Cole as part of the line-up of TNT next to Ally McCoist, Owen Hargreaves, Michael Owen and Steve McManaman.
The former Wales wing player has been regularly seen on TNT in recent months, because he was part of the coverage group for the Europa League final between Tottenham and Manchester United.
He will be shown on the Premier League of TNT and the European coverage, where the broadcaster has exclusive rights to the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League this season.
They have also closed a four-year deal to show FA Cup matches, although the BBC will still broadcast a total of 14 games, including two quarter-finals, a semi-final and the final.
Earlier this summer, Ferdinand explained in a statement that he was enthusiastic about experiencing new challenges when he revealed his decision to stop TNT.
He said: “Since it was retired from football, it has been a privilege about the game I have love to watch for sports fans for ten years who watch BT Sports and TNT sports.
“The network continues to thrive with more rights than ever, and I look forward to following the progress and the exciting future that lies for us.
“While I turn the page to the next chapter. I carry countless memories. I am enthusiastic about what the future has in store, spending more time with my family, focused on Rio Ferdinand gifts and my other business interests. I hope to stay connected to you all in different capacities. Thanks again for everything.”