Fabrizio Romano has commented on the England international’s quotes that he had discussed joining other clubs with several players.
Earlier this week, Real Madrid completed the signing of English midfielder Jude Bellingham from Dortmund for a reported €100 million, including add-ons which could amount to 30% of the fixed amount.
The former Borussia Dortmund player was first revealed by renowned journalist, Fabrizio Romano as a player Real Madrid would grow an interest in, opening the door for many other elite European clubs to want to sign the teenager.
While reports over his next destination seemed unclear whether the 19-year-old was headed for an English club, videos surfaced online in which the player was seen with his England teammates, Jordan Henderson and Trent-Arnold Alexander. With notions carried that he would most likely be headed for Liverpool or could join up with his best friend, Erling Haaland at Manchester City.
It was later confirmed by Romano, that Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was one player who discussed Bellingham’s future with him, while his old Borussia Dortmund teammate Erling Haaland also spoke to him about the possibility of following him to Manchester City.
FABRIZIO BREAKS BELLINGHAM TO MADRID TRANSFER
Speaking on the mystifying story behind his eventual move to Real Madrid, the Italian Journalist confirmed both Liverpool and City players spoke to the teenager on his future, but Bellingham’s decision seemed made up.
“Just to be clear with Bellingham, who mentioned being approached by players from other clubs when he spoke at his Real Madrid unveiling last week, he made up his mind to move to Real back in April. It’s normal for players to try convincing their international teammates or former club teammates to follow them, it’s nothing new, but Bellingham’s mind was made up.”
“Players like Jordan Henderson, Erling Haaland, all of them tried to discuss Bellingham’s future with him, but it’s absolutely normal and it’s not a decisive factor in how a player picks their next move.”
Bellingham would undoubtedly have been a superb signing for either of those clubs, with Liverpool in particular need of a top class midfield signing this summer.
The Reds have brought in Alexis Mac Allister and he looks a promising addition to Jurgen Klopp’s squad, but further signings will surely be needed and Bellingham would’ve been the dream option to build around for years to come.
City also have Ilkay Gundogan out of contract this summer, so would surely have done well to replace him with another brilliant all-rounder in Bellingham, and it’s surprising the 19-year-old wasn’t more tempted by Pep Guardiola’s project.
