Liverpool make contact with people close to Jude Bellingham over move
Liverpool have upped the ante in their pursuit of Jude Bellingham as the Anfield giants are ‘in contact with people close’ to the Borussia Dortmund star, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
Darwin Nunez became the Reds’ record signing when he completed a £85million switch from Benfica in June, but it seems that boss Jurgen Klopp is preparing to surpass that figure by concluding another big-money deal.
According to Spanish sources, via FourFourTwo, Fenway Sports Group have set their sights on luring Bellingham to Liverpool as a parting gift.
The report suggests the Merseyside giants are long-term admirers of the central midfielder and the club’s owners, who put the Reds up for sale last week, are hopeful of winning the race for his services.
It is understood that Liverpool are very optimistic of sealing a deal in 2023, after Bellingham has been identified as Klopp’s top target, but Manchester United and Manchester City are also in the running to reach an agreement with Dortmund.
Real Madrid are battling for the 19-year-old’s signature as well, while it has emerged that Bellingham is not interested in joining Chelsea despite the west Londoners’ co-owner Todd Boehly opening discussions with his father and agent.
Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke has revealed talks will be held over their talisman’s future after he returns from the World Cup.
Romano understands that Liverpool are among a number of clubs vying for Bellingham and remain hopeful of fighting off stiff competition.
The respected Italian journalist is aware that the Reds have been holding discussions with people close to the teenager as they look to gain an advantage over his fellow suitors.
Romano told GIVEMESPORT: “Liverpool will be in the race, 100 per cent.
“They’re already in contact with people close to Jude Bellingham, so Liverpool will be there.”
One thing for sure is that Bellingham, who has been selected by England boss Gareth Southgate for the fast-approaching World Cup in Qatar, will not come cheap.
It is understood that Dortmund value the former Birmingham City man at close to £131million, meaning he would surpass Jack Grealish as the most expensive signing in British football history if those demands are met.
The German giants have no reason to lower their financial expectations as Bellingham’s £49,000-per-week contract is not due to expire until the summer of 2025.
Fenway Sports Group will have to dig deep if they want to end their Liverpool reign by luring the 17-cap sensation to Anfield.
