Manchester United have joined the race to sign Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund with Erik ten Hag a ‘big fan’ of the midfielder.
Bellingham is set to be at the centre of a transfer tussle between Europe’s top clubs next summer, with Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid all understood to be interested in the England international.
The teenager saw his reputation continue to soar at the World Cup in Qatar, where he impressed during England’s run to the quarter-finals.
The Times are reporting that the strong competition for his signature has not deterred Manchester United, who previously made an attempt to sign Bellingham from Birmingham City in 2020.
Ten Hag is a big admirer of the midfielder and believes Bellingham has both the talent and personality to flourish at Old Trafford.
United also retain an interest in signing Frenkie de Jong, having failed to sign the Dutchman from Barcelona during last summer’s transfer window. Ten Hag worked with the 25-year-old at Ajax and the Red Devils saw two bids for De Jong turned down last summer.
An exit at the end of the season has not been ruled out for De Jong, who has made nine league starts for the Spanish side this season.
In addition to midfield targets, United are focused on the signing of a centre-forward following Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit from the club.
There is an acceptance that January can be a difficult market to operate in and the Red Devils are determined not to overpay for targets. PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo and Benfica’s Goncalo Ramos are on the club’s radar.
