‘Complete’ Liverpool target tipped to become ‘wildcard’ for transfer rival by coach
Liverpool are targeting Dortmund and England midfielder Jude Bellingham, but one of his former coaches thinks the star could become a ‘wildcard’ signing for Real Madrid.
Bellingham is an important player for Dortmund, having made 38 appearances across all competitions so far this season. That is despite him being just 18 years old.
The dynamic midfielder holds a record of six goals and 13 assists in that time, too.
He is already part of Gareth Southgate’s England squad and will likely become one of the country’s youngest players to appear at a World Cup this winter.
Bellingham is attracting interest from Liverpool. Reports claim Jurgen Klopp wants the 12-cap international to revitalise his options in the centre of the park.
However, they are far from the only suitors. Real Madrid and Manchester City also want Bellingham, according to recent reports.
Pep Clotet, who gave the wonderkid his professional debut at Birmingham, has now weighed in on Bellingham’s links with Los Blancos.
Jude Bellingham receives high praise
“Jude is a very complete player,” the Spanish coach said (via Football Espana). “He plays well in attack and defence. He’s a strong player and, despite his age, he has experience in the Champions League and with the national team.
“He’s so dynamic that he can be a wild card for Madrid.
“Defensively he’s very involved and he always arrives into the box at the right time. He covers a lot of ground and he’s a very focused guy, always concerned with winning the ball quickly.
“It’s difficult to classify his ability because despite his age it’s difficult to see his ceiling. He’s always stood out and he has an ambition and maturity far ahead of his age.”
Football Espana reveal Madrid want Bellingham to replace Luka Modric in their team. The Ballon d’Or winner still has massive influence on games but is now 36.
Bellingham would be a worthy successor, given his performances in Germany and for the Three Lions.
Dortmund are known to sell if the price is right. But in Bellingham’s case it will not be simple.
His contract at the Westfalenstadion runs until 2025. That means either Liverpool, Madrid or City would need to pay £100million to land Bellingham this summer.
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