Player Newcastle wanted to sign in January now set for Sunderland medical as £3m deal agreed

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Sunderland are now set to sign Jobe Bellingham – who was wanted by Newcastle in 2022 – after a deal was agreed with Birmingham.

The reliable Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Sunderland have agreed a £3m deal to sign the younger brother of Jude Bellingham – a medical has now been arranged.

As Sunderland prepare to welcome Bellingham to the Stadium of Light, it is certainly worth revisiting Newcastle‘s interest from December.

What’s the story?

Well – according to TEAMtalk – Newcastle were preparing a bid for the Birmingham wonderkid in December ahead of the January transfer window.

That same story mentioned that Sunderland were also among those in contention to sign the 17-year-old.

Now – however – it appears Sunderland have edged ahead of their rivals by taking their interest one step further, as they close in on the teenager’s signature.

Romano adds that Bellingham has said yes to a move to Sunderland as he believes it represents the most sensible destination at this stage of his career.

The England Under-18 international has made 22 Championship appearances for Birmingham this season, and started the final two games of the campaign as he became an important player under John Eustace.

Sunderland beat Newcastle to a gem

By the sounds of it, Bellingham has ignored Newcastle primarily due to the fact he doesn’t envisage himself getting much game time under Eddie Howe.

Nevertheless, that should not detract from the fact that Sunderland have got themselves a real diamond.

It is not easy for an 18-year-old to assert himself in the Championship, let alone in the centre of midfield, but that is exactly what the Stourbridge-born prodigy is doing.

The Mirror have even claimed that Bellingham was on Manchester City and Liverpool’s shortlist in 2022 as the Reds led the race to sign him, which speaks volumes about his potential.

At Sunderland – where other young talents such as Jack Clarke and Amad Diallo have shone this season – the environment feels perfect for Bellingham to kick on.