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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Alex Brotherton

Man City cult hero gives Jude Bellingham transfer view fans won't want to hear

Manchester City are expected to be one of a handful of sides fighting over the signature of Jude Bellingham next summer, but one former City fan favourite doesn't think he should move to the Premier League champions.

This season City have already witnessed first-hand the talent of Bellingham, and now the rest of the world is too. The 19-year-old got his first World Cup off to a flying start on Monday as he scored the opening goal in England's 6-2 win against Iran.

His perfectly-placed header was just the tip of the iceberg, however - the young midfielder showed so much maturity and tactical intelligence despite his tender age. If that was a sign of what's to come, then there will be no shortage of potential suitors for the former Birmingham City player.

READ MORE: How Jack Grealish can use World Cup to Manchester City's advantage

Speaking on ITV following England's win, pundits Nigel de Jong and Ian Wright discussed what the next step in Bellingham's career could be. De Jong is a cult hero among City fans, although he might have raised a few eyebrows with his opinion on where the youngster should go next.

"I would prefer him to go to Bayern Munich, because that's an extra step in the development of a player," De Jong said. "Structure-wise but also playing for the big prizes. I don't want to disrespect Dortmund but as an organisation Bayern is the pinnacle."

For former Arsenal and England striker Wright though, the Premier League - and perhaps City - is the obvious destination.

"He's gone to Germany and developed, and we're seeing a real fantastic, mature [player]," Wright said.

"Being [one of the] captain there now, a brilliant accolade for his age, I'm thinking as good as the German league is, I feel that now maybe it's time to get himself back in the Premier League. If that's what he's gone there for, to develop and get to a level, then I think he's there."

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