Journalist David Ornstein has shed some light on Liverpool’s pursuit of Jude Bellingham, claiming that it is being led by Jurgen Klopp, who now has increased transfer powers.
The departure of sporting director Michael Edwards and the upcoming exit of his successor, Julian Ward, has meant that Klopp holds more keys to Liverpool’s transfer decisions and is leading the charge for Bellingham himself.
Liverpool’s midfield needs a rebuild with Thiago and Naby Keita suffering from injury problems, whilst Jordan Henderson, Fabinho and James Milner are ageing.
Bellingham, 19, is seen as the ideal target to lead the next era of their midfield, but after a highly impressive World Cup campaign with England, he will not come cheaply.
Speaking on The Athletic’s YouTube channel, Ornstein explained the transfer situation at Liverpool and their interest in the Borussia Dortmund star.
He said: “It’s been widely reported and speculated that Liverpool are leading the race to sign him – and they do want to sign him.
“Jurgen Klopp has, as we understand it, been leading that pursuit himself, and his power within the Liverpool hierarchy has now increased with the news that Julian Ward, the sporting director, is going to be stepping down at the end of the season.
“And a number of other changes, including him signing a new contract, that has really brought him to the fore; Ward’s predecessor, Michael Edwards, leaving too.
“But the feeling among other clubs who are interested in Bellingham is that while Liverpool may be the early frontrunners, the situation is still open, and that brings the likes of Real Madrid to the fore, maybe Manchester City, too.”
TIF Thoughts on Klopp and Bellingham…
With a number of Europe’s top clubs keen on the midfielder, the teenager, who has been hailed as a ‘monster’, has an important decision to make as he decides the next step of his career.
Playing under Klopp could really benefit him, and if he becomes a success at Anfield, we think the likelihood is that he will end up winning major trophies.
A move to Real Madrid may mean he has less of a guaranteed starting position considering the strength of their squad, but the allure of becoming a Galactico signing could be enough to sway him.
Joining Dortmund ahead of the likes of Manchester United when originally leaving Birmingham City was a terrific decision for his career, and he will hope to make another choice that sends him further into stardom as a world-class talent.