Liverpool are now favourites to sign Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham, with the player’s family reportedly keen on the move.
The teenager has been one of the stars of the World Cup. His all-action displays in England's midfield have seen him attract widespread praise from fans, pundits and players alike.
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane, who is famous for his no-nonsense, dour style of punditry, insisted the 19-year-old was currently better than he had ever been. Meanwhile, Liverpool captain and England teammate Jordan Henderson described the youngster as “incredible”.
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Another burgeoning talent, Phil Foden told ITV after England dismantled Senegal 3-0 that Bellingham was “one of the most gifted players I have ever seen.”
The 22-year-old added: "He has no weakness in his game. I think he will be the best midfielder in the world."
Europe’s top clubs have been lining up for months, with a view of poaching Bellingham from Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund. Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have been linked, while Premier League sides United, City, Chelsea and Liverpool are all also said to be interested.
While Dortmund are reportedly resigned to losing the Bellingham, they are allegedly asking for a whopping €150 million (£129 million) for the player.
Bellingham to Liverpool?
According to Christian Falk, a reputable journalist on all things transfer-related, Liverpool are the favourites to sign Bellingham next summer.
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Talks between Liverpool and Bellingham’s representatives are said to be further along than discussions with La Liga giants Real Madrid. Moreover, Bellingham’s family would allegedly rather Bellingham joins Liverpool than Los Blancos.
Bild journalist Falk tweeted: “TRUE. Liverpool are favourites to sign Jude Bellingham (19) from BVB next Summer.
“Talks are more advanced than with Real Madrid. The Family of Bellingham prefers the Transfer to LFC.”
Bellingham has previously explained his family’s influence on his love for the game, once recalling in the Guardian how his mother Denise used to take him to watch his father Mark play in the non-league.
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Mark Bellingham, who balanced a non-league career with his day job as a sergeant with West Midlands Police, scored over 700 goals in around 900 appearances at clubs including Stourbridge, Leamington and Sutton Coldfield Town.
Featured Image Credit: ShutterstockTopics: Football, Jude Bellingham, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Transfers