Manchester United could still be in the race to sign Borussia Dortmund and England star Jude Bellingham, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Bellingham a special talent

The midfielder is one of the most talked-about young players in world football currently, producing some superb performances for England at the World Cup.

Bellingham has not only shone in Qatar, however, already captaining Dortmund at just 19 and scoring four goals in five Champions League appearances this season.

A host of Europe's top clubs will be chasing the teenager if he leaves at the end of the season, and Sky Sports have claimed United are going to miss out, that may not be the case.

The Latest: United still in the race

Writing for Caught Offside, Romano goes against previous reports and insists that the Red Devils are still in the race to acquire Bellingham's signature:

"As far as I understand, it’s not that Manchester United are out of the race. They want Bellingham but they know Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid have different power on the market at this stage of their project.

"So Man United will try but they know it’s more than difficult. Focus now is on January, not on June yet."

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The Verdict: The perfect summer signing?

Bellingham could be the No.1 target for many clubs next summer and whoever gets him will end up potentially signings one of the world's greatest players over the next decade or so.

He is already such a formidable player in all facets of his game - he has a 93% pass completion rate at the World Cup - and he could be an unbelievable signing by United, transforming their midfield almost immediately.

Whether or not Bellingham chooses United remains to be seen - a top-four finish is likely to be a must, in that respect - but they should have the financial muscle to at least makes a record-breaking club offer.