Real Madrid are now leading the race to sign Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund ahead of Liverpool, according to new reports.
The England international has been on the radar of major European clubs ever since he arrived on the scene at Birmingham City.
Bellingham made his senior debut for the Championship side aged just 16 years and 38 days. He is the youngest player ever to play for the Blues' first team.
Then, 25 days later, he became the club's youngest senior goalscorer after netting against Stoke City.
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It was always clear that Bellingham would move on from St. Andrew's.
Manchester United were one of the clubs in a strong position to sign him, but the midfielder eventually chose Dortmund in the summer of 2020, a club known for giving plenty of opportunities to young players.
Over two years on, the rumour mill is hitting top gear once again over another potential move for the 19-year-old.
Liverpool have long been linked with the midfielder, but financials could be an issue for Jurgen Klopp's side.
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And Real Madrid - the team that defeated them in last season's Champions League final - might be about to deal the Reds another blow.
Real Madrid 'in pole position' to sign Bellingham
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Real are now 'in pole position' to bring Bellingham to the Bernabeu.
Last week, the Daily Mail claimed that Carlo Ancelotti's side were 'desperate' to sign the player, seeing him as the long-term successor to Luka Modric in the centre of Real's midfield.
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However, it was claimed that Bellingham preferred a move back to England, and Liverpool, over the allure of the Bernabeu.
But now, Spanish media report that Real are firmly back in the race to sign the 19-year-old, and are confident of sealing a move for over €100 million - a price that could be out of range for Liverpool.
Los Blancos and Brazil trio Eder Militao, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo have all received Spanish citizenship this year, meaning Real now have the three non-EU slots in their squad all vacant, and can sign Bellingham if they choose to.
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That would represent a major disappointment for Klopp and Liverpool, with the German a huge fan of the player.
Speaking about a potential move for the player in July, the Reds boss said: "He's not on the market, so that's the first problem with that player. Well, the only problem with that player!"
With Liverpool struggling in ninth place in the Premier League, Bellingham could be an ideal addition to bolster the Reds as they attempt to re-establish their position near the top of the division.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Carlo Ancelotti, Jurgen Klopp, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Jude Bellingham, Borussia Dortmund