Newcastle are considering a seriously ambitious move in the summer transfer window as they hope to beat a string of Europe’s biggest clubs to sign Jude Bellingham.
The 19-year-old looks very likely to leave Borussia Dortmund in the summer and the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Manchester United all want to tempt him to join them.
Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain have also expressed an interest, but the England midfielder is reportedly not keen on either of those options, with their transfer policies putting him off.
German publication BILD report that one of Liverpool, City, United or Real Madrid will likely be Bellingham’s next destination, but Newcastle are trying to muscle their way into the race to sign him.
The Magpies are enjoying a fantastic season under Eddie Howe, currently sitting third in the Premier League table, only behind Arsenal and Manchester City.
They have immense financial power and could compete with any of their rivals on those terms, their task would be to convince Bellingham to join their project over the more established European powerhouses.
If Newcastle missed out on Champions League football then any hope of signing Bellingham would seem impossible, but if they finish in the top four then they will believe they have a chance.
Liverpool are currently ninth in the Premier League table, with United sitting fourth, so neither can guarantee that they will be able to offer Bellingham Champions League football next season.
The battle for Bellingham is set to be the transfer saga of the summer, with Dortmund accepting that he wants to leave but wanting around £130m for his signature.
With the clubs that are interested in him it is likely they will get their wish, but where he will end up is far from clear.
MORE : Jude Bellingham told to reject Liverpool & Manchester City for Manchester United
MORE : Jude Bellingham rules out Chelsea move after record January spending spree
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Share your story or advertise with us: Whatsapp: +2347068606071 Email: info@newspotng.com