Liverpool have been freshly linked with a move for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham - but they could be about to face competition from Real Madrid.
Bellingham has long been seen as an ideal signing for the Reds. At 19 years of age, he is already one of the top midfielders on the planet, and has a number of excellent qualities on the ball, going forward and in his work rate and vision.
The former Birmingham City player is also growing into an important figure with England, and therefore plays alongside potential future team-mates Jordan Henderson and Trent Alexander-Arnold for the national team, when all three players are selected.
Advert
One sticking point for Jurgen Klopp's side, though, has always been financial. And, according to a recent report from The Times, the Reds are not willing to pay over £100 million to sign Bellingham.
New reports, meanwhile, claim that Real Madrid have developed major interest in the midfielder.
Jude Bellingham to Real Madrid?
According to the Daily Mail, Real are readying a bid for the 19-year-old Dortmund star.
Advert
It is claimed they will offer him the opportunity to be 'the next Luka Modric'. The Croatia legend is still playing at an exceptionally strong level, but turned 37 this year, and will likely be winding his career down in the coming seasons.
However, Real have one major hurdle to jump over. According to the same source, Bellingham is 'leaning' towards a move to Liverpool, and a return to England, rather than moving to Spain.
The midfielder came through the youth system at Birmingham City, with the Dortmund transfer representing his first move to a club abroad.
Advert
Furthermore, Real are said to want to offer Dortmund £100m for his services.
That would not price Liverpool out of a bid, given the report that they would be willing to match that particular offer.
And according to Sky Sports correspondent Kevin Hatchard, the England international is still considering a stay at Dortmund beyond this summer.
Whatever happens, Bellingham certainly has plenty of options to choose from, meaning all interested parties will have to do some convincing in order for him to move to their club.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Jurgen Klopp, Carlo Ancelotti, Jude Bellingham, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Luka Modric