Man City set to capitalise as Liverpool pull out of Bellingham race

Jude Bellingham is a top transfer target for Europe's top clubs

Man City set to capitalise as Liverpool pull out of Bellingham race

Faruq Ibrahim 23:05 - 14.04.2023

Premier League holders Manchester City have reportedly overtaken Liverpool as frontrunner in race for Jude Bellingham.

Manchester City are reported to be leading the race to sign Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham during the summer transfer window. 

The 19-year-old was previously set to join Liverpool, with the Merseyside giants placing him at the top of their wish list; however, they have now pulled out, and their northern rivals, City, are said to be keen. 

City in for Bellingham

According to Football Insider, Manchester City have emerged as the frontrunner in the race for England international, Jude Bellingham

Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham

The report comes after Liverpool, who were said to be closest to reaching a deal, pulled out. And Manchester City are expected to capitalise on a previous relationship with the Yellow and Blacks, whom they signed Erling Haaland from. 

Pep Guardiola's side are expected to face stiff competition from Real Madrid, who are also said to be keen on a move for Jude, but with the player expected to cost at least £100 million, the Premier League holders are seen as better positioned financially to make a move happen. 

The midfielder has been in fine form this season, leading Dortmund to a title challenge against Bayern Munich, scoring 10 goals and notching five assists. 

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Liverpool pull out of Jude Bellingham race

As previously reported, Liverpool’s top transfer priority had been the England international as manager Jurgen Klopp gets ready to restructure his team following a poor campaign. Liverpool have now chosen to divert their attention elsewhere due to the size of the necessary rebuild.

Dortmund's demand was almost £130 million, together with wages and agents' costs, which would have eaten up a large portion of Klopp's transfer budget over the course of a summer.

According to senior Anfield sources, the deal wasn't feasible after extensive discussions, and they felt they couldn't afford to put all their eggs in one basket, especially since there are no guarantees that Bellingham will even leave Dortmund this summer or choose Anfield as his destination.

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