According to the Telegraph, Liverpool are leading the race to sign Manchester United target Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund in 2023.
What’s the story?
Well, the England international put his name up in lights once again with a goal against Manchester City in the Champions League last night, causing Gary Lineker to describe him as a “huge talent”.
Liverpool are firm admirers of Bellingham, with Jürgen Klopp stating that the “only problem” about the 19-year-old was the fact he wasn’t on the market during the summer transfer window.
However, the Telegraph believe Europe’s leading clubs are now putting in the groundwork ahead of a future deal for the outstanding teenager, with Liverpool leading the hunting pack.
Manchester United are set to rival Liverpool for Bellingham’s signature, and the expectation is that Borussia Dortmund will listen to offers for their No.22 next summer.
The German giants were not keen to lose both Erling Haaland and Bellingham in the same summer, especially after selling Jadon Sancho to Manchester United in 2021.
Liverpool should expect to smash their club-record transfer fee if they are to sign the £49,000-a-week wonderkid next summer, with Borussia Dortmund currently valuing their £25m signing at £100m.
Liverpool need a strong 2022/23 campaign to fend off Manchester United
In our view, Liverpool’s hopes of signing Bellingham rest on them qualifying for the Champions League this season.
The Reds have endured a tough start to the 2022/23 campaign, failing to beat the likes of Everton, Fulham and Crystal Palace in the Premier League, while also suffering defeat to Manchester United.
That poor form has Liverpool sat seventh in the Premier League, and with so much competition at the top of the table, it will be a fight just to make the top four – let alone win the title.
If Liverpool find themselves playing Europa League football next season, it would put a huge dent in their chances of signing Bellingham, who will surely want to continue experiencing the Champions League.
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