Liverpool are “strong admirers” of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham but a prospective bid for the England international may only happen next January, according to the Liverpool Echo‘s Ian Doyle.
The journalist believes that Dortmund will refuse to sell the teenager this summer, as they don’t want to lose any more key players if Erling Haaland is also allowed to leave.
It means the earliest possible move for Bellingham will be after the World Cup in December, where his price tag could increase. Supporters on Twitter have been debating whether any attempt by the Reds for the 18-year-old will be made:
Imagine our midfield with Thiago, Fabinho and Tchouameni/Bellingham
— Max (@Max64702097) April 28, 2022
I think Bellingham is the one they really want but they have to weigh up factors such as price and availability. If we can’t get him this summer for a reasonable price then I do think we go for someone else.
— B (@BroB0110) April 28, 2022
We heard this about the January window, well definitely get a midfielder in the summer
— ken (@LFCKen24) April 28, 2022
Wouldn’t listen to this, guarantee we sign a midfielder this summer won’t be Bellingham that’s next summer.
— tomynwa19 (@tomynwa19) April 28, 2022
Get that guy
— Farai (@ItsMeTheAfrican) April 28, 2022
Need 2 mids, Ox leaving and Milner age while Keita and Thiago can’t complete a full season so for me Bassouma and Ward-prowse would be the cheaper option instead of Bellingham
— MJG 🇺🇦 (@M_J_G_21) April 28, 2022
Red should just take this boy please 😰
— bhoy david (@Bhoy___David) April 28, 2022
Reports in the German media in recent months suggest Dortmund could demand as much as €100m (£84m) for Bellingham and, combined with the interest from other clubs (including Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea), it does seem like a long shot.
There is no doubt that Liverpool will be in the market for a midfielder in the coming months, but the chances of them pursuing Bellingham is pretty low.