The number of clubs linked with a big-money move for Jude Bellingham seems to grow by the week.
The Borussia Dortmund midfielder is still only 19 but is a regular in the Bundesliga and Champions League and last night added to his England credentials with another accomplished display in the 3-3 draw with Germany.
There was plenty of interest in him last summer but that is expected to intensify ahead of the next summer window. Recruited from Championship side Birmingham City in 2020 for a fee of £25million, Bellingham's market value is said to be more than £100m north of that figure.
David James, the former Manchester City goalkeeper, feels it is inevitable a tug-of-war for the youngster's services will happen.
Read more : City may have secret weapon in battle for Bellingham transfer
However he fears Spanish giants Real Madrid will ultimately usurp City and other Premier League rivals.
"He’s 19 years old, he’s played over 100 games and has 16 international caps. I think he’s mustard," James told GGRecon.
"Having met him and spoken to him, and also taking into account that I know people who work with him, he’s the most grounded 19-year-old in football. He’s a highly, highly, talented footballer that understands the game so well. What more do you want from a midfielder?
"£130million isn’t a ridiculous price tag at all. He went to Germany during Covid, which was a very difficult time, and he’s embraced it. It’s proven to be the right move because his game has improved.
"I think if Real Madrid came calling, as much as I’d love to see him in the Premier League, I’m sure that would be a move that he’d greatly accept. I’m sure Dortmund will be upset that they’ve lost three of their best players in a two-year period, (but) the world’s Jude Bellingham’s oyster."
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