Jude Bellingham: The Midfielder Who is in High Demand
Jude Bellingham, the 19-year-old midfielder of Borussia Dortmund, has become one of the most talked-about football players in Europe. With performances that have taken the Bundesliga by storm, the player has drawn interest from some of the biggest clubs on the continent. Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, and Real Madrid are believed to be the main contenders to secure Bellingham’s services. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen whether any of these clubs could afford the young midfielder or accommodate him in their playing style.
Despite speculation about where the player’s future lies, there has been little talk about Bellingham’s desire to leave Dortmund this year. Former Dortmund and Scotland midfielder Paul Lambert believes there is every chance the player may stay in Germany for another season. Lambert commented, “I think he’ll get better, and if you can keep his feet on the ground and keep him humble, then he can do anything he wants to.” Lambert also believes it is crucial for Bellingham to win a Bundesliga title before his departure.
If Bellingham does decide to leave Dortmund, the club will command a staggering fee for his services. Valued at €110m, the midfielder is the most valuable player in the Bundesliga, the most valuable midfielder in the World, and the fourth most valuable player overall. Dortmund has a contract with him that runs until 2025, which means they are under no obligation to sell and can name their price in the transfer market.
If Madrid, Manchester City, or Manchester United wants to sign Bellingham, they will likely have to pay a similar fee to the highest rate ever paid for a central midfielder, which is currently the €121m fee Chelsea paid for Enzo Fernández. There is a good chance the player may go for even more.
Bellingham’s abilities on the pitch have been compared to those of Christian Pulisic, Jadon Sancho, and Erling Haaland, who have also lit up the Bundesliga. Dortmund has been instrumental in their development, and Bellingham is proving to be no different. However, where Bellingham’s future lies is still unknown. For now, Dortmund fans can enjoy watching the young talent impress on their home turf.