Liverpool remain in a four-way battle to sign Jude Bellingham, according to journalist Miguel Delaney.

The Lowdown: Bellingham expected to leave

The 19-year-old's stock continues to rise all the time, with his performances for both Borussia Dortmund and England catching the eye hugely this season.

Bellingham has four goal contributions (three goals and one assist) in just three Champions League appearances in 2022/23, with BT Sport pundit Rio Ferdinand labelling the youngster a 'beast' who is the 'full package' for his performances on the big stage.

The midfielder is expected to leave Dortmund at the end of the season and Liverpool have continually been linked with snapping him up next summer, but they are not alone.

The Latest: Liverpool battle PL rivals

Taking to Twitter on Monday, The Independent's Delaney confirmed that the Reds, Manchester United, Manchester City and Real Madrid are all in the race to sign Bellingham:

"United maintain contact with Barcelona on De Jong, but may face choice, based on Bellingham’s choice. Feeling in England is it’s United-Liverpool depending on how teams evolve - with City watching. Feeling in Germany is Madrid."

The Verdict: Must get top four

What this update does is highlight just how vital it is for Liverpool to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League, in terms of bringing Bellingham to Anfield.

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Their woeful start to the season suggests that that could be a real challenge, with the teenager surely only willing to join a Champions League-playing team next year.

It is a huge incentive for Jurgen Klopp's side to improve dramatically in the coming months, with Bellingham arguably one of the most outstanding young English talents in many years, and someone who could transform Liverpool's ageing midfield.