Real Madrid are close to agreeing a deal to sign Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund with negotiations understood to be in the ‘final stages’.
Bellingham has emerged as one of Europe’s most coveted talents across three seasons at Dortmund and Real Madrid are close to beating Premier League competition to his signature.
Fabrizio Romano is reporting that the Spanish giants are close to finalising personal terms with the midfielder and negotiations with Dortmund are at an advanced stage. The fee involved has not been revealed, but it is expected Bellingham will cost in excess of £100m.
Real Madrid have made Bellingham a leading transfer target for the summer window as Los Blancos plan for the long-term in midfield, as Luka Modric and Toni Kroos approach the end of their careers at the Bernabeu.
The 19-year-old could become the sixth Englishman to represent Real Madrid, after Laurie Cunningham, Steve McManaman, David Beckham, Michael Owen and Jonathan Woodgate.
🚨⚪️ Real Madrid are close to complete deal to sign Jude Bellingham, confirmed. Negotiations are progressing to the final stages.
Personal terms are almost agreed — Juni Calafat, crucial again.
New meeting has been scheduled to complete the agremeent with Borussia Dortmund. pic.twitter.com/EZO76bXiHk
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 3, 2023
Manchester City and Liverpool had been among the frontrunners to sign the 19-year-old, though the latter withdrew their interest with the financial package required to sign the England midfielder deemed too expensive given the need for multiple additions in midfield.
Bellingham has made 130 appearances in all competitions for Dortmund since signing for the German side from Birmingham City in 2020. He has earned 24 caps for England since his senior debut and became the youngest Englishman to play at a major tournament at Euro 2020.
