Liverpool 'leading the race for Jude Bellingham despite Manchester United talk'

Liverpool are reportedly still at the head of the queue for Borussia Dortmund and England midfielder Jude Bellingham.

The 19-year-old's future is currently the subject of much speculation, with many of the world's leading clubs said to be determined to sign him during next summer's transfer window.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea are all believed to be keen on the Englishman, while a recent report said that Manchester United had identified him as their leading target for next year.

However, according to ESPN, Liverpool are still widely seen as the favourites to secure his signature at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.

The report claims that the Merseyside club's 'close relationship' with Bellingham's camp has given them an advantage when it comes to securing a deal.

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There is allegedly a feeling that the rival clubs 'have ground to make up' on Liverpool, with the Reds preparing a big-money move for the teenager during next summer's transfer window.

Dortmund have privately accepted that Bellingham will leave next summer despite the midfielder still having another three years left to run on his contract with the German club.

The former Birmingham City youngster is said to be valued by BVB in the region of £100m, although a recent report claimed that the final fee could be closer to £130m.

Bellingham has been in impressive form for his Bundesliga side during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring nine goals and registering two assists in 19 appearances in all competitions.

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In total, the midfielder has represented BVB on 109 occasions since his arrival from Birmingham in the summer of 2020, contributing 19 goals and 20 assists in the process.

Man United are believed to have been close to signing Bellingham when he left Birmingham, but the player's camp ultimately decided that a move to Germany would be more beneficial.

Bellingham, who has captained Dortmund this season, is thought to be in a strong position to be named in Gareth Southgate's starting XI at the upcoming World Cup.

BVB are allegedly hopeful that the midfielder enjoys a strong competition to further raise his price tag, with the club in a strong position to demand a huge fee next year.

Despite Liverpool's apparent position at the head of the queue, the Reds would have to secure Champions League football for next season in order to bring the youngster to Anfield.