Jude Bellingham remains Liverpool’s “top target” for their midfield, according to Fabrizio Romano. The 19-year-old has emerged as one of the world’s most coveted prospects and Liverpool are one of a host of European clubs who would love Bellingham in their ranks.
Liverpool Prioritising Their Jude Bellingham Pursuit
🚨 EXCLUSIVE 🚨
Jude Bellingham remains Liverpool's top target for the summer 🔴@FabrizioRomano has also said to keep an eye on Matheus Nunes 👀
Full story 👇👇
— CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) February 26, 2023
Jurgen Klopp Desperate to Secure Bellingham
David Ornstein of The Athletic reported that Jurgen Klopp is transfixed by the possibility of signing Bellingham. The Reds manager is more likely to spend big on him than sign two other midfielders for the same price.
The midfielder has been in imperious form this season and has been promoted to captain of Borussia Dortmund. Bellingham has registered 16 goal contributions in 30 appearances this campaign. His excellent displays at the World Cup for England also resulted in ex-Manchester United captain, Rio Ferdinand, hailing the 19-year-old as ‘fabulous’.
Read More: Manchester United Among Contenders for Jude Bellingham Signing
Although Liverpool are enduring a disastrous season and look likely to miss out on Champions League qualification, Ornstein insisted that this shouldn’t affect Bellingham’s decision. Bellingham is said to be a huge admirer of Klopp and his ability to build a winning team and develop young players.
Bellingham Set to Be One of the Most Expensive Transfers in History
One potential stumbling block in Liverpool’s pursuit of Bellingham could be his extraordinary price tag. Ornstein believes that Bellingham could cost suitors around £130 million, which is nearly double the amount of Liverpool’s club-record transfer.
Other European juggernauts, including Manchester City, Manchester United and Real Madrid are also keenly tracking Bellingham. These clubs are arguably more likely to pay this astronomical fee due to their previously lavish expenses.
Who Are Liverpool’s Alternatives to Bellingham?
Romano revealed that a revamp of Liverpool’s midfield is a top priority for their summer transfer agenda and that the club will be linked with up to 20 midfielders in the coming months.
There could be multiple departures in Liverpool’s midfield this summer. The futures of Naby Keita and Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain are very uncertain, whilst Arthur Melo’s loan has been ravaged by injuries. Others, including Fabinho, Jordan Henderson and James Milner are ageing and have rapidly declined this season.
Read More: Eni Aluko: Chelsea Should Look to Sign Victor Osimhen
Romano has listed Mason Mount, Ruben Neves, Matheus Nunes and Ryan Gravenberch as other potential targets instead of Bellingham. Mount’s contract negotiations have stalled due to reluctance to sign a deal for more than five years. Wolverhampton Wanderers duo Neves and Nunes both have the capability to compete at a higher level, whilst Gravenberch has struggled for game time at Bayern Munich.
