Liverpool making a move for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham this summer will depend on whether Naby Keita leaves Anfield before Thursday’s transfer deadline, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.
The Lowdown: Liverpool's interest in Bellingham
Last month, The Athletic’s James Pearce stated the Reds are 'very interested' in signing the England midfielder, but added that it wouldn’t happen this summer as the Bundesliga outfit had already sold star striker Erling Haaland to Manchester City earlier in the year.
However, the Daily Express claimed that Liverpool could accelerate their plans to sign the 19-year-old due to Borussia Dortmund reportedly taking an interest in Keita.
According to reports in Germany, it would take £103m to secure the England international’s signature, as the player has nearly three years left on his contract. However, with an injury crisis currently afflicting Liverpool’s midfield, Jurgen Klopp has admitted that the club may need to bring in a new player in that position ahead of Thursday’s transfer deadline.
The Latest: Sheth shares Bellingham latest
With reports now suggesting that Keita is unhappy with his playing time at Anfield, Sheth believes that Liverpool’s pursuit of Bellingham will depend on whether or not the Guinea international leaves the club this summer.
Speaking with GiveMeSport, the Sky Sports reporter said about the possibility of Liverpool moving for Bellingham this week: “I think that would depend on what happens with Naby Keita as well – whether they’d consider selling him in this transfer window or whether they’re going to try and convince him to sign a new contract.”
The Verdict: Would be an incredible signing
Regarded as one of the most promising youngsters in world football, Bellingham’s arrival at Anfield would signal a huge sign of intent by the Merseyside club.
At just 19 years of age, the midfielder has amassed some of the best statistics across Europe over the past year.
As per FBRef, compared with positional peers in Europe's top five leagues, the former Birmingham City player ranks in the top 3% for assists and dribbles completed and the top 4% for touches in the attacking penalty area and progressive passes received. This indicates an ability to create goalscoring chances, take on opponents and gather possession in promising areas of the pitch.
With England teammate Jack Grealish having claimed that it is "scary " how good Bellingham is at his age, his signing would be an incredible coup for Liverpool, so Kopites could be waiting with bated breath to see what happens with Keita over the next four days.