According to reports, Man City are optimistic and confident on bringing Jude Bellingham this summer. The 19-year-old has spent 3 successful years in Bundesliga registering 20 goals and 24 assists in 124 appearances.
The England international is largely expected to seek pastures new ahead of the 2023-24 season. Bellingham and his representatives are expected to meet with Dortmund executives over the international break.
The meeting will be in regards to the future of the English wonderkid as BVB still hoping to extend his current deal beyond June 2025. Pep Guardiola’s side are thought to be after three big-money signings this summer, with Bellingham being one of their top targets.
The Citizens are not the only major European team interested in luring the £133 million-rated midfielder away from Germany. Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Real Madrid have all been linked with the German clubs’ midfielders.
Liverpool was thought to be one of the frontrunners in the race for Bellingham, but according to a recent report, the Reds are “increasingly unlikely” to sign the England international this summer.
Man City ahead of everyone in Jude Bellingham pursuit?
According to ESPN, Man City is growing confident that they can beat out stiff competition to sign Bellingham, albeit Real Madrid remains firmly in the race as well.
The Etihad Stadium and the Santiago Bernabeu are the most likely destinations for Bellingham this summer, according to the source, despite Dortmund’s desire to keep their star player for another year.
If club captain Ilkay Gundogan leaves when his contract expires at the end of the season, Man City will likely step up their pursuit of Bellingham.
The Citizens are reportedly willing to let the 32-year-old leave following seven seasons at the Etihad, with Barcelona ready to sign him on a free transfer.
Bernardo Silva, another City player linked with a summer exit, admitted in January that he is open to starting a “new chapter” in his career.
Barcelona are said to have been interested in the 28-year-old for some time, but they may struggle to pay a cost in the area of £70 million due to current financial issues.
According to ESPN, Real Madrid could swoop for the Portugal international if they fail to sign Bellingham this summer.
Los Blancos are also keeping an eye on Celta Vigo’s 20-year-old prodigy Gabri Veiga, with Carlo Ancelotti likely to rebuild his midfield ahead of next season.
It is unclear whether 37-year-old Luka Modric and 33-year-old Toni Kroos will stay at the club after this season, as their contracts expire in less than four months.
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