Jude Bellingham ‘has chosen’ his next club as Liverpool, Man City are delivered final verdict on transfer hopes
Borussia Dortmund superstar Jude Bellingham has reportedly “chosen to join Real Madrid,” after being heavily linked with Liverpool and Manchester City.
Jurgen Klopp allegedly saw the England international as his primary summer target until Dortmund priced the Reds out of the move. Also, Pep Guardiola is thought to be a big admirer.
But now, it seems Real Madrid are willing to pay Bellingham’s eye-watering price tag, with the midfielder keen on heading to the Bernabeu this summer.
This is according to a report from Spanish outlet AS, who claim Bellingham wants to play for Madrid next term, despite Liverpool and Man City’s interest.
The 19-year-old is undoubtedly one of the most exciting young players on the planet at the moment. As a result, it’s no surprise to see three huge clubs vying for his signature.
This season, Bellingham has made 28 league appearances for Dortmund. He has scored five goals and made five assists so far.
Indeed, with the German giants currently top of the Bundesliga table, he has played a key role in their recent success.
With that in mind, Dortmund won’t let him go cheaply. Therefore, Real Madrid could be forced to pay £132m (€150m) for his services.
Liverpool switch focus to another Bundesliga starlet
It’s clear to see why Madrid are desperate to sign Bellingham. Los Blancos lost Casemiro to Manchester United last summer. Now, 37-year-old Luka Modric is probably on his last legs.
Carlo Ancelotti does have the likes of Eduardo Camavinga at his disposal, though.
With that in mind, a potential combination of Camavinga and Bellingham could be one of the best young midfield duos Europe has ever seen.
Now, with Liverpool, in all likelihood, out of the race for Bellingham, Klopp will turn his attention to alternatives.
As noted by TEAMtalk, Ryan Gravenberch could be a player that the Reds look to bring in instead.
The Dutch centre-mid, who currently plays for Benfica, fits a similar mould to Bellingham. He is young (20), strong, good on the ball, can play as an attacking or defensive midfielder and is touted to become a star in the future.
In contrast, Gravenberch would cost Liverpool just £25m this summer – considerably less than Bellingham’s valuation.
With the likes of James Milner, Jordan Henderson and Fabinho all past their prime, Liverpool could do with signing several midfielders this summer.
