According to AS, Real Madrid are now interested in signing Jude Bellingham, with Liverpool also keen on the Borussia Dortmund gem.
WHAT’S THE STORY?
Well, the 18-year-old has caught the eye of Real Madrid, as Los Blancos prepare for life after Luka Modrić.
The Croatian maestro turns 37 in September, and the Spanish giants are searching for his long-term replacement.
According to AS, Bellingham ticks all the boxes, with Real Madrid now determined to pinch him from Borussia Dortmund ahead of Liverpool.
It was Bild who revealed Liverpool are interested, and it was even said that Jürgen Klopp has become personally involved in the £84.5m pursuit.
It’s no surprise to see Europe’s leading clubs fighting over Bellingham.
At the age of just 18, the teenager has already racked up 127 senior appearances, with 16 of those coming in the Champions League.
Bellingham also has 12 caps for England to his name.
In our view, Liverpool and Klopp should be worried, as Real Madrid are in a fantastic position to sign Bellingham.
AS explain how Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund have a good relationship, having previously negotiated deals for Achraf Hakimi and Reinier Jesus.
The Spanish news outlet also mention how Bellingham has a sponsorship deal with Adidas, who have a partnership with Real Madrid too.
Therefore, from a commercial aspect at least, a transfer would be supported by Adidas.
Furthermore, Florentino Pérez and Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke have what AS describe as an ‘excellent’ personal relationship.
By the sounds of it, Klopp may have to do his best ever persuasion job with Bellingham, as Real Madrid are in a strong position to sign him.
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