Liverpool are 'increasingly unlikely' to sign Jude Bellingham in the summer

Liverpool are 'increasingly unlikely' to bring Jude Bellingham to Anfield this summer, according to reports, with two other clubs in a stronger position to sign the Borussia Dortmund midfielder.

Bellingham, who continues to be linked with a move away from the Westfalenstadion, is under contract with Borussia Dortmund until June 2025 as rumours swirl surrounding his future.

And the Bundesliga side are standing firm. They say it will take a 'very high' bid from a club to alter their stance, according to The Athletic, which makes a deal far more challenging for potential suitors.

At the moment, however, Manchester City and Real Madrid are in the strongest position to snap him up.

That suggestion will come as a big disappointment to Liverpool fans who might have been anticipating a big-money move in the summer. especially considering they have strongly linked with Bellingham for some time.

So why are they behind their rivals in the race to sign one of world football's biggest talents? David Ornstein suggests three things are holding them back.

The anticipated fee, the financial power of rival suitors and their reservations about entering a bidding war at the level expected.

All of the above has cast 'significant doubt' on Liverpool’s chances to sign the Birmingham City academy product, but the report does mention that they haven't given up hope just yet.

Last week, it was reported that Real Madrid are stepping up their pursuit of Bellingham and are readying a big-money bid for the 19-year-old.

Los Blancos representatives travelled to Dortmund to hold talks with Bellingham and his family over a prospective move to the Bernabeu, according to Spanish outlet AS.

Dortmund, meanwhile, are expected to demand in excess of £100 million for his services.

But the report states that Madrid could be willing to offer an eye-watering £123 million to get their man - a figure Liverpool would struggle to match.

The news arrived shortly after reports claiming he had informed his Dortmund teammates of his desire to join Real.

Spanish journalist Santi Aouna suggested Bellingham told colleagues that he 'dreams' of a move to the 14-time Champions League winners.

Aouna also revealed that the player had an appointment with his father and Real Madrid chief, Juni Calafat, at the Chelsea Harbour Hotel in London.

Thoughts on Jude Bellingham's much-talked about future? What do you think he should do this summer?

Let us know in the comments.