Jude Bellingham is set to disappoint both Manchester City and Manchester United with a move to Real Madrid on the cards.
The Borussia Dortmund and England star is currently one of the most sought-after players in world football. A clutch of Europe’s biggest clubs were thought to be interested in him including both Manchester giants.
City boss Pep Guardiola was thought to be confident of luring the former Birmingham star to the Etihad Stadium this summer. The Spaniard believed that he had a good chance of signing him due to Bellingham’s close friendship with City star and former Dortmund teammate Erling Haaland.
The English champions were willing to match or better the offer from Real, who they face in the Champions League semi-finals next week. Following talks with Spanish giants Real Madrid however, a switch to the Santiago Bernabeu now seems to be more likely.
According to reports in Spain, Real are willing to meet Dortmund’s £120m asking price for the midfielder and have already finalised personal terms.
City’s local rivals Man United were also credited with an interest in trying once more for Bellingham. The Red Devils were linked earlier in his career only for Bellingham to seal a move to Germany.
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That had left their confidence in a deal this time around dented and do not appear to be making a play for his services. The same could be said for Liverpool.
Jurgen Klopp's side were also linked with a big-money swoop for Bellingham amid a dire need for midfield recruits. However, the Reds have pulled out after being left concerned at the price they would be paying for him given the squad needs a dramatic rebuild after a dire campaign.
In moving to Real Madrid, Bellingham is faced with plenty of competition for a midfield berth in Spain. Club veterans Luka Modric and Toni Kroos are out of contract at the end of the season but are expected to pen fresh deals.
Talented youngsters Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde have also played a key role this season under boss Carlo Ancelotti. Bellingham would also move to a club desperate to get themselves back on track.
The reigning Spanish and European champions are still in the race to lift the Champions League but have endured a poor domestic campaign. They are on the verge of losing their LaLiga crown to fierce rivals Barcelona.
The two teams are separated by 14 points with just five games of the season left to play. Real are still in the Copa del Rey and play Osasuna in the final this weekend.
