Real Madrid has reached an agreement with Borussia Dortmund for the transfer of Jude Bellingham, the talented midfielder from England. The deal, which includes additional payments, could exceed £115m, making Bellingham the most expensive British player ever at the age of only 19. Bellingham joined Dortmund from Birmingham in 2020 and was recently named the Bundesliga Player of the Year for the 2022/23 season.
Borussia Dortmund has stated that the total amount for Bellingham’s transfer could go beyond £115m due to certain performance-based clauses. This announcement caused their website to crash as fans eagerly awaited the news. Dortmund’s statement seemed to confirm that Bellingham will sign a six-year contract at the Bernabeu.
The statement from Dortmund regarding the add-ons explained, “The variable transfer fees are contingent upon Real Madrid achieving certain sporting successes and/or the player’s performance at Real Madrid over the next six seasons.” Despite interest from Premier League clubs like Liverpool and Manchester City, Real Madrid emerged as the winner in the race for Bellingham’s signature. Liverpool, who were initially considered favorites, had to withdraw their pursuit due to the high cost involved.
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During the past season, Bellingham was named the Bundesliga’s Player of the Year, although Dortmund narrowly missed out on the title to rivals Bayern Munich on the final day. Since making his international debut for England against the Republic of Ireland in November 2020, Bellingham has earned 24 caps and scored one goal.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti shared his thoughts on Bellingham’s talent, stating that he is one of the best young midfielders in the world. Ancelotti also emphasized the quality of his current midfielders, particularly the talented youngsters at the club.
Real Madrid boasts an impressive array of young midfielders. Last year, they signed Aurelien Tchouameni, aged 23, on a six-year contract for a fee of £68m from Monaco. Eduardo Camavinga, aged 20, arrived a year earlier from Rennes for a fee of £35m. Additionally, Federico Valverde, aged 24, is nearing 200 appearances for the club. The midfield is further strengthened by the experienced duo of Luka Modric, aged 37, and Toni Kroos, aged 33, who continue to be vital contributors. Ancelotti has also been pleasantly surprised by the performances of Dani Ceballos, aged 26, who has emerged as a promising talent this season. Real Madrid’s midfield thus possesses a perfect blend of youth and experience.