Man Utd, Liverpool interest in £35m starlet confirmed by Champ chief

Birmingham boss Pep Clotet has confirmed that his side are fully aware of the interest building in a Manchester United and Liverpool target.

Several reports since the turn of the year have claimed that United were leading the case to land 16-year-old midfielder Jude Bellingham, but it would also appear that Jurgen Klopp’s men, as well as Arsenal and Manchester City, are also keen on the player.

Bellingham has enjoyed a remarkable first season of senior football, scoring four goals in 27 Championship appearances this term.

That form has seen scouts flock to watch the central midfielder in action, with reports that United made bids of £25m and then £30m to sign the youngster in January.

And when speaking to the Birmingham Mail about the youngster, Clotet said: “We are aware of interest in him. From the beginning he has been watched since he was 13 or 14.

“For the Middlesbrough game half of Europe was here. He is used to it and I am used to it. I have always said it is very good that clubs show interest in our players because this means that we have good players.”

 

Birmingham certainly face a massive fight to keep hold of one of English football’s brightest young talents, but a bidding war could well drive his value up – given the number of clubs interested – meaning the eventual fee could go above £35m.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have been backed to complete the signing this summer of a man one pundit feels is the modern-day equivalent to former Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho. Read more…