Liverpool signing Jude Bellingham in the January transfer window will be ‘almost impossible’, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.
The Lowdown: Price tag revealed
Premier League clubs Manchester City and Chelsea, alongside the Reds, have all been credited with a strong interest in the midfielder who is one of the most in-demand prospects in world football right now.
Reports earlier this month have suggested that Jurgen Klopp and club chiefs would be happy to splash £86m to secure his services, though Borussia Dortmund’s asking price is £129m, which owners FSG are claimed to be unlikely to pay.
The Latest: Sheth’s comments
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Sheth insisted that Edin Terzic’s side aren’t in any position to let Bellingham go in the New Year, making Liverpool’s chances of landing their target very slim. He said:
“I don’t expect Borussia Dortmund, under any circumstances, to sell Jude Bellingham in January, they’re under no pressure to do that.
“They’re still in the Champions League as well, so they’re going to want Jude Bellingham to stay, and they’ve made him captain as well, so I think that is almost impossible to do in January.”
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The Verdict: Blow for Klopp
Bellingham has been dubbed ‘world-class’ by Jacek Kulig, and Liverpool missing out on him would be a huge blow for Klopp.
The England international already has nine goals and three assists to his name across all competitions this season at club level, and is averaging 3.2 tackles and 2.1 shots per Bundesliga game (WhoScored).
He capped off his fine form for Dortmund with the opening goal for England in their 6-2 win over Iran in the World Cup this afternoon, and looks set to be a key player for the Three Lions.
Dortmund letting Bellingham go next summer would be a lot more likely, but the Reds will need to put the required money on the table if they want any chance of fending off their fellow competitors.