Jude Bellingham rejected an approach from Manchester City before joining Real Madrid, according to reports.
Borussia Dortmund announced on Wednesday that the England international will head to the Bernabeu in an £88million deal later this month. Still just 19, Bellingham made the switch to Germany three years ago from Birmingham City.
The midfielder has already become a household name and will carry England’s tournament hopes for many years to come. With Real Madrid overhauling their squad this summer, Bellingham will be presented as the latest Galactico name to join the La Liga giants.
Unsurprisingly, a host of Premier League clubs were also targeting the 19-year-old. According to Spanish reporter Jose Luis Sanchez, Man City, as well as Liverpool and Chelsea, were snubbed by Bellingham in favour of Madrid.
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Elsewhere, Spanish outlet SPORT1 claims Barcelona face a stumbling block in their attempt to sign Bernardo Silva. The Portuguese midfielder has been linked with a Camp Nou move on several occasions in recent years.
Financial difficulties at Barca are understood to be an obstacle, with Silva valued at £80million by City. Paris Saint-Germain - a club that could blow the Catalans out of the water - are also reportedly considering an approach for the 28-year-old.
After taking time to settle during his debut campaign, Silva has emerged as one of Pep Guardiola’s key players in the ensuing five years. In January, the midfielder revealed he will discuss his City future at the end of the season.
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