Newcastle United have joined the race for Jude Bellingham, with reports suggesting they are unfazed by Borussia Dortmund’s potential £133 million (€150m) price tag.
Bellingham, 19, has become one of the best prospects in world football since arriving in Germany, becoming a key player for Dortmund and impressing at the World Cup with England.
The Birmingham City youth product, who already has 22 senior caps to his name, is more of a goalscoring threat this season, with his 10 goals in all competitions matching his total from the past two seasons.
Bellingham have scored in all four Champions League finals this campaign, joining Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe as the only teenagers ever to score in four consecutive games in the competition.
The world’s biggest clubs are set to battle for the youth’s services, and Newcastle want in on the action.
TOP STORY – NEW CASTLE INTO BELLINGHAM
According to Sport Bild, the four main rivals for Bellingham are Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Real Madrid, but “Newcastle United are looking to get into the game”.
The report states that Bellingham has been ruled out by both Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain but does not suggest that Bellingham would consider a move to St James’ Park.
That could change if Newcastle – who have lost just once this season in the Premier League – qualify for the Champions League.
He also says Dortmund will demand “up to” £133m (€150m), but with so many wealthy interested parties, it’s hard to imagine the final figure falling below that without unexpected injury concerns.
ROUND UP
– The New York Times is reporting Fiorentina they were left frustrated by Chelsea owner Todd Boehly after he personally called them with a low-ball offer for 26-year-old Moroccan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat on deadline day.
– Leeds United winger Jack Harrison26, is expected to sign a new contract with the club after his £20m move to Leicester City was called off at the 11th hour, according to Sky Sports.
– According to Calciomercato, Real Madrid midfielder Luke Modric he has received interest from both MLS clubs and Saudi Arabia, but has his heart set on a contract extension at the Santiago Bernabeu.
– The Telegraph is reporting ChelseaAcademy players fear the panic will be futile if the club misses Champions League qualification, as they will have to balance their books with some sales.
– According to The Independent, Everton a free agent does not feel 30 years old Isco the physical profile to suit the Premier League and are no longer considering signing him.