Liverpool

Liverpool

Premier League • England

Liverpool Jude Bellingham transfer hopes hit major double whammy as Reds turn to two alternatives

Jude Bellingham No 22 of Borussia Dortmund reacts to a challenge during the UEFA Champions League match Manchester City vs Borussia Dortmund at Etihad Stadium, Manchester

Liverpool’s prospects of securing the Jude Bellingham transfer are rapidly fading, with TEAMtalk able to reveal the two major reasons why a move to Anfield is looking increasingly unlikely.

The Borussia Dortmund teenager is emerging as one of European football’s most in-demand stars. Already a prized performer, he’s taken his game on to another level this season playing in a more advanced midfield role. Indeed, the 19-year-old has nine goals and two assists from 17 appearances in 2022/23 so far.

Understandably, demand for his signature is extremely high. Liverpool have long been chasing his signature and for a fair while have appeared the favourites.

Jurgen Klopp’s need to strengthen his midfield in 2023 is well documented and Bellingham certainly fits the bill. With Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita departing next summer on frees, the 2022/23 season may also be James Milner’s last at Anfield.

And with Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcantara not getting any younger, Liverpool are very much in need of fresh blood.

However, they are far from the only sides keen to recruit Bellingham. Indeed, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Real Madrid are also among his admirers. To that end, recent reports indicate the Spanish side are now leading the race.

Worse it to come too, amid claims Dortmund have raised their asking price for the midfielder to an all-time high.

Now TEAMtalk can reveal Liverpool’s worst fears over Bellingham are coming to the boil.

And our transfer expert Graeme Bailey believes the prospects of the Reds getting their hands on Bellingham are fading fast.

Liverpool fading in Jude Bellingham transfer race

“Jude Bellingham is on the wanted list of every major club in Europe,” he told TEAMtalk. “They have all been looking and have been aware of him since he was at Birmingham.

“As it stands, Bellingham has not made his decision and sources close to the player are indicating he will not decide until after the World Cup finals.”

Discussing the possibility of Bellingham staying, Bailey added: “Borussia Dortmund are confident he will stay with them for at least another season at least until 2024. But others believe he will be tempted by a move at the end of the season. What we can say is that he won’t be leaving in January.

“Liverpool have long been linked and they love him. But he is going to cost well in excess of £100m…and it remains to be seen if Liverpool owners Fenway Sports will go to that level. I am told that is very unlikely.

“The one club in pole position for Bellingham and the money to do it is Real Madrid. But Bellingham’s next club will be decided by him – he will make the decision, so that does give Liverpool some hope. But as said Bellingham, is one for next summer.

“The way Liverpool’s campaign is going, it is believed they are looking for reinforcements in January.”

Suggesting two other players they are looking at in the winter window, Bailey added: “They looked closely at the likes of Konrad Laimer and Ruben Neves late in the summer window. It is not going to be a shock to see them bring at least one new midfielder in in January.”

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