Real Madrid meet with top midfield target Jude Bellingham’s father

Real Madrid reportedly held discussions with Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham’s father in the Spanish capital last week, as per a report from BILD.

It has fuelled transfer rumours, with the prodigious midfielder reportedly leaning towards a move to Santiago Bernabeu.

The 19-year-old’s future remains the subject of frequent speculation, with European heavyweights ready to battle out for him in the summer.

Dortmund CEO Sebastian Kehl has recently stated that they would try to keep Bellingham for one more season. However, with clubs willing to break the bank for him, that will be tough.

Los Blancos are said to be the best-placed club to sign the England international, although the race remains open, with Manchester City and Liverpool keen on his services.

The La Liga giants have earmarked Bellingham as the next Galactico signing and a player for the long-term future, as they are likely to move on from veterans Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, who are in the final few months of their contracts.

Bellingham’s consistency and quality have seen his stock rise exponentially in just two years, with Die Borussen valuing him at around €150 million.

He was part of Edin Terzic’s side that recently lost out to Chelsea in the Champions League round of 16.

As far as interested clubs are concerned, doubts have emerged over Man City’s spending power after their recent Financial Fair Play allegations. They have also lined up Declan Rice and Mateo Kovacic as potential midfield targets.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Bellingham hinges on their Champions League qualification. The Reds’ finances would take a massive hit if they miss out on the top-four spot in the Premier League.

Madrid may feel confident after meeting Bellingham’s father. The English midfielder’s addition would make Los Blancos an unstoppable force in Europe.