Those who watched Liverpool succumb to a disastrous 5-2 defeat at the hands of Real Madrid in the Champions League could be forgiven for thinking it would influence Jude Bellingham’s summer decision.
However, sources close to Borussia Dortmund have claimed that the Englishman, who is a “big fan” of Jurgen Klopp, would be prepared to overlook the Reds’ ongoing struggles this term and consider the bigger picture.
“However, Klopp has been impressed with Bellingham and is more likely to spend big on him than sign two players with the same money,” reported The Athletic.
“Bellingham is a big fan of Klopp and Liverpool, and several sources have insisted he wouldn’t necessarily be put off by the club’s recent trouble.
“In theory, Bellingham’s style means he would contribute well to Klopp’s system. He is a box-to-box player who helps decide games. A recurring theme running through all the conversations in this article is that Bellingham is very smart and will think long term: choosing the right move is more important to him than a potential year without Champions League football. After Liverpool’s defeat against Real Madrid, that scenario seems increasingly likely.
“Another potential advantage for Liverpool is Klopp’s relationship with his former club. And with Liverpool director of football Julian Ward about to depart, the manager’s role in trying to secure Bellingham could be particularly crucial.
“Some involved in the search for Bellingham feel this is the deal Liverpool loses, but the money needed and Liverpool’s indifferent manner may still prove too big a barrier.”
The aging of today’s midfield, with major figures such as Jordan Henderson and Fabinho proving unreliable, has highlighted a clear need for fresh legs in midfield alongside exciting emerging talent Stefan Bajcetic.
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The fact that this is billed as ‘Liverpool’s deal to lose’ has to be encouraging for our recruitment team ahead of a summer window that will require significant change and similarly far-reaching backing to fund it.
If you’re looking for the epitome of dynamism and another potential leadership candidate who can learn from the likes of our No. 14 and possibly James Milner (if the vice-captain is extended for another year), you won’t find many. , if any, better options than Bellingham.
Having chosen to wait for our target this summer, it would represent a remarkable degree of incompetence on our part not to see the potential transfer if the only barrier is financial in nature.
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