Man Utd have a 'secret weapon' that could help them in Jude Bellingham transfer race

A member of staff at Manchester United could play a crucial role if they decide to pursue a move for Jude Bellingham.

Matt Hargreaves, who was announced as 'the spearhead' for United's football negotiations last month ahead of the summer window, has joined from global sports manufacturer Adidas.

And during his time as an Adidas executive, Hargreaves looked after a number of clients from the Bundesliga, including Borussia Dortmund midfielder Bellingham, who would often promote Adidas apparel for social media under his wing.

Hargreaves, who is also a Manchester United fan, will replace Matt Judge after he left his role as director of football negotiations last year.

The Reds will have a fight on their hands if they decide to make a move for Bellingham. The 19-year-old midfielder has attracted interest from a host of top European clubs of late, including Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

If reports are to be believed, Los Blancos are currently favourites to sign the teenager but United are also said to be keen.

In fact, according to Sky Sports, Erik ten Hag's side are exploring a deal for the England international, who turned down the club in 2020 after visiting their Carrington training base alongside Sir Alex Ferguson.

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Last month, journalist Melissa Reddy said: “There is no need to rush through a decision when you have received sales pitches from Real Madrid, Manchester City and Liverpool, while Manchester United explore whether there is any room to manoeuvre into a hot pursuit.

“Bellingham’s priority is to continue his development at his next destination, and in his own words: 'to win way more, to continue to push the boundaries of my own potential and talent.'

“Real positioned their offer to the midfielder to become the best player in the world at the place that breeds champions.

“They told him he can become a Ballon d’Or winner and Champions League royalty and weren’t shy in pointing out that Kylian Mbappe chose wrongly by staying at Paris Saint-Germain.”

😭🇳🇱 A fan asks Erik ten Hag to sign Kylian Mbappe & Jude Bellingham.

“Why not?” @TenHagBall_ pic.twitter.com/k5RYjX5PAf

— UtdPlug (@UtdPlug) April 30, 2023

Dortmund are expected to demand £130 million for Bellingham, which would surpass the £89.3 million club record fee United paid for Paul Pogba.

Do you think United should go all out for Bellingham in the summer window?

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