Klopp calls World Cup star "exceptional", he's desperate for him to join Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp has labelled Liverpool target Jude Bellingham as “exceptional”.

Liverpool are in need of midfield rejuvenation, with the likes of Thiago Alcantara, Naby Keita and Arthur Melo having all been out for extended periods throughout the campaign.

In turn, the club have been linked with a number of midfielders from across the continent, including RB Leipzig’s Konrad Laimer, World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez and England star Jude Bellingham. The latter is believed to be the Reds’ primary target, however.

Indeed, Bellingham’s performances for Borussia Dortmund and England have led to the 19-year-old becoming one of the most sought-after midfielders in world football.

Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are all thought to be battling for the teenager’s signature.

While it is unlikely Liverpool will sign the Birmingham-born star in the January window, Klopp has admitted he is a big fan of the youngster.

Jude Bellingham is “exceptional”

Klopp, who rarely discusses transfer targets so openly, insisted it was difficult to put a price on a player that could become a generational talent.

The Reds boss said, via Sky Sports: "I don't like to talk about money when you talk about a player like him. Everyone can see he is just exceptional.

"If you mention to someone who has no clue about football, or who knows about football and has not watched it for a while (and ask) 'How old do you think Jude Bellingham is?', I don't think anyone would get even close to his age.

"They would say 28 or 29 because he plays so maturely. He played an exceptional World Cup. Absolutely exceptional.

"With all the things he has and things he can improve, to describe him I would say the things he can do are difficult to learn, and the things he can improve are easy to learn.

"So, yes, he is a really good player. What can I say? I have thought that already for two or three years since he had his breakthrough at Dortmund.

"Everybody knew already but I have no idea what that means for the money side of it.

"I really think if we all want to do him a favour then we do not talk too much about money. I mean that from an England point of view. Do not throw any hurdles in his development."

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