Liverpool have a limited range of alternative transfer targets if they fail to prise Jude Bellingham away from Borussia Dortmund, according to journalist Dean Jones. 

The Lowdown: Bellingham a wanted man

Fabrizio Romano recently told GiveMeSport that the 19-year-old is the Reds' ‘main target’ as Jurgen Klopp looks to rejuvenate his midfield options.

Such is the teenager's enormous potential that Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid are also in the race for Bellingham’s signature, as per The Athletic.

Inevitably, he will not come cheap, with Dortmund reportedly valuing the England international at a mammoth €150m (£131.6m).

The Latest: Lack of alternatives

Asked by GIVEMESPORT as to whether Liverpool had a backup option of a similar level to Bellingham, Jones had his doubts.

He said: “There aren’t too many players available on that level. So obviously, that whittles things down straight away.

“I mean, how important was it to them that he was young? How important is it to them that he’s English? How important is it that he’s just one of the best midfielders in the world? How many of those boxes need to be ticked?”

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-liverpool-transfer-news-35/" title="Latest Liverpool transfer news!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]

The Verdict: Bellingham or bust

Let’s face it, there are not many midfielders who compare to Bellingham, despite his tender age of 19. For Liverpool, it feels as if it is essentially Bellingham or bust in their pursuit of a marquee midfield signing. 

Ultimately, landing of the England teenager would offer some much-needed longevity to Liverpool’s midfield ranks.

More importantly, the service that he offers in the middle of the park highlights him as a specialist in both attacking and defending phases, with his FBref metrics painting a sea of green. Few can match this level of well-roundedness and potential.

The 19-year-old could be an icon for the Reds, and having captained Borussia Dortmund in the absence of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels, he clearly possesses leadership qualities. 

Being such a complete package at such a young age, Bellingham is a generational talent who few can match. Ultimately, Liverpool might have some backup options in mind if this pursuit proves unsuccessful, but they will probably not be on the level of England’s rising star.