Manchester City hold initial talks over Jude Bellingham with sources pointing towards deal
It has been revealed that Manchester City has initiated negotiations for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham.
Pep Guardiola and officials at the Etihad Stadium are well-known admirers of the player, who is regarded by many in Europe as one of the game’s brightest talents at the highest level.
Guardiola mentioned Jude Bellingham during a recent press conference.
“(Borussia) Dortmund is a perfect place for young, talented players.
“Maybe if (Jude) Bellingham went to a top Premier League team (from Birmingham City), he wouldn’t get the minutes.
“The best way for a young player to get better is play minutes. At 17 years-old, he arrived.”
The Manchester City manager continued, “It’s not just the quality, he had special mentality.
“Already one of the captains, at 19 is quite impressive. It’s not just about the goals, the whole package is really good.
“He’s already playing for England at 19. We know the quality he has.”
The public admiration for Jude Bellingham appears to be transforming into a professional drive to sign the player, if Tuesday night’s revelations are to be believed.
Mike Keegan of the Mail reports that Manchester City has begun preliminary discussions regarding Jude Bellingham.
Those with knowledge of the situation reckon Jude Bellingham ends up at Manchester City. Relations between both clubs very strong post-Haaland & told initial conversations have been held. A great World Cup may price him out this summer but he’s not seeing out his contract. #mcfc
— Mike Keegan (@MikeKeegan_DM) November 8, 2022
The report cites those familiar with the teen’s situation who believe the England international will end up at Etihad Stadium.
Following the summer acquisitions of Erling Haaland and Manuel Akanji, relations between Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund are ‘extremely strong,’ as many had suspected.
Nonetheless, there may be one obstacle to any deal during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Keegan emphasizes that Jude Bellingham’s World Cup performance could price him out of the market during the summer transfer window of 2023.
However, Jude Bellingham will not complete his contract with Borussia Dortmund, which runs through the summer of 2025.
It is widely anticipated that the former Birmingham City midfielder will be included in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Following a largely successful first half of the domestic and European season, Jude Bellingham and Borussia Dortmund will compete in their final competitive match before the major tournament on Friday night.
Dortmund faced Manchester City in the Champions League group stage, securing their spot in the round of 16 and drawing Chelsea for two matches to be played in the early months of 2023.
Manchester City hold initial talks over Jude Bellingham with sources pointing towards deal
