Solskjaer swerves Jude Bellingham speculation as boss talks Man Utd DNA

Jude Bellingham TEAMtalk

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has refused to comment on reports that Manchester United have missed out on the signing of Jude Bellingham.

The 16-year-old is one of English football’s most exciting talents after his stunning breakthrough season in the Championship.

He has made 38 appearances, chipping in with four goals including two match-winners in August and September.

Reports in January claimed Manchester United and Chelsea wanted to sign the teenager, though they failed to agree a deal.

More recently, however, United and Dortmund have tussled for Bellingham and ESPN now claims the German side have won the battle.

Solskjaer, however, refused to be drawn into speculation surrounding the teenager when questioned if United had missed out.

“Well, there has been loads of speculation and we’ve been linked with every single talented player from the age of 15 to 25,” Solskjaer said. “I can’t comment on every single player that has been linked with us. So, no, I can’t really comment.”

Solskjaer did, however, address talk of a huge deal for Jadon Sancho. You can read his comments here.

The United boss also believes “any young player needs to make a decision that he’s comfortable with”. The Norwegian also continues to look for players that fit the club’s character. Solskjaer has overseen a cultural reset since his return to Old Trafford.

“Everything is a process and every day you show your true colours, true values and what kind of person you are,” Solskjaer said.

“For me, to create this culture that we are trying to create, I felt we needed to go through… you have a certain DNA and identity when you work for Man United, if you play for Man United.

 

 

“It doesn’t matter if you’re in the canteen, laundry or in the admin, on the pitch, you’ve got to be a certain type of character, for me.

“I’m old school, I’m very old school in my values. I’m not going to rant and rave. I’d rather open the door or close the door. Either in or out.

“Players who want to sign, if they don’t feel right as a person you close the door.

“If players who are inside that don’t feel right, don’t want to contribute to the team ethos and have the betterment of the team (at heart), then you open the door and let them leave. It’s a constant process.”

 

Solskjaer ready for big summer

United are in the midst of a 15-match unbeaten run in all competitions and are aiming for glory in the FA Cup and Europa League. More importantly, Champions League qualification now looks a realistic aim.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Manchester United TEAMtalk

Solskjaer’s side impressed in Tuesday’s 3-0 win at Brighton but former captain Gary Neville still believes they are a way off challenging for the title. The Sky Sports pundit said “three or four players of high-quality” are still needed.

That claim is something Solskjaer agrees as he explained: “Gary is right in a lot of things he says. Of course we cannot think we’re there. If you look at the table, we’re nowhere near where we should be.

“Consistency has to be improved. We still probably have to improve on many aspects of the game.

“I don’t know how many points we’re behind the top two so definitely Gary’s right.

“There’s not going to be any complacency and thinking ‘this is it, we’ve cracked it’. We’ve still got so much work to do.

“But it’s an enjoyable journey. You can see improvements so, yeah, we need to make one or two very good decisions – or more good decisions – but it’s going to be an important summer, definitely.”