Real Madrid has reached an agreement with Borussia Dortmund for the acquisition of highly talented England midfielder Jude Bellingham, in a deal worth a staggering 103 million euros (£88.5 million).
The 19-year-old, who made the switch from Birmingham City to Dortmund in July 2020, showcased his immense potential as one of England’s standout performers during the 2022 World Cup.
Bellingham has communicated his desire for the move and is expected to undergo a medical examination in the coming days. The midfielder, who has attracted interest from several top European clubs, is set to sign a lucrative six-year contract with Real Madrid.
Dortmund, in an official statement, confirmed that the Spanish club will pay an initial fee of 103 million euros, with additional potential add-ons included in the agreement. If all the performance-related criteria are met, the total value of the deal could reach an impressive 133.9 million euros (£115 million).
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Both Manchester City and Liverpool were among the clubs vying for Bellingham’s signature, but it appears Real Madrid has secured the talented youngster, making him the world’s third-most expensive teenager. Additionally, Bellingham’s transfer will also make him the second-most expensive English footballer in history, trailing only Eden Hazard’s move to Real Madrid from Chelsea in 2019, which cost 115 million euros.
Liverpool had withdrawn from the race to sign Bellingham back in April, citing the exorbitant costs associated with the deal. At the time, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp likened discussions about high-value transfers to a child’s desire for a Ferrari as a Christmas present.
When Bellingham left Birmingham City for Dortmund, commanding a fee of £25 million, he became the most expensive 17-year-old in football history. Despite having only completed a single full season of professional football, some critics mocked Birmingham’s decision to retire the teenager’s shirt number. However, Bellingham quickly silenced the doubters with his remarkable performances at Dortmund, and in October of last year, he achieved a historic milestone by becoming the club’s youngest-ever captain at the age of 19.
Throughout this season, Bellingham has featured prominently for Dortmund, appearing in 42 matches, contributing 14 goals, and providing seven assists. His remarkable progress and potential have caught the attention of Real Madrid, who are now set to secure his services in a high-profile transfer deal.