Liverpool are growing increasingly confident that they’ll be able to win the race for much-coveted midfielder Jude Bellingham.
That’s the latest from Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenburg. Writing on Twitter, the journalist claimed that Bellingham – who is Liverpool’s main target – could well be on his way to Anfield next year.
“LFC is very optimistic to get him [Bellingham] in 2023! He is also the main target. Klopp is pushing for him & Liverpool wants to invest in summer. They expect him to cost €100m [£87m] + X. Hardly any chances: PSG, Barca, Bayern,” Plettenburg wrote.
In a previous tweet, the journalist also claimed that Bellingham is at the top of Manchester United’s transfer wish list. However, due to the presence of Liverpool, he suggested that they may be disappointed.
“He’s the transfer target No. 1 for MUFC confirmed! They expect him to cost around €150m [£130m], they have scouted him a lot. Ten Hag wants him in 2023! But: Chances are low due to competition from MCFC and LFC and due to Financial Fairplay!” claimed the German reporter.
Liverpool heading into the unknown – with Bellingham
From a position of seemingly rapidly reducing strength, Liverpool have roared back in this fight.
Several outlets now have them as being the most likely destination for Bellingham next year. There has been some suggestion that a deal could even be done in January, but it’s more likely to be summer of 2023.
As long as they finally get their man, Liverpool fans won’t mind that. Although there is still a need to strengthen as soon as possible.
Without an extra body in midfield, the Reds are massively running the risk of missing out on Champions League football.
The suggestion is that would be unlikely to deter Bellingham from signing for Liverpool. However, it may have an impact on other targets.
For the moment, that seems like a pretty long way off, anyway. After the news broke yesterday that FSG are putting the club up for sale, the future is a little unclear for Liverpool right now.
Some will see that as a positive. Until yesterday the only real certainty was that Liverpool are unlikely to spend big in any given transfer window. Now, that may be about to change.
A difference of ownership could increase the likelihood of Bellingham and others signing for the club. But the upheaval of joining a club in transition could affect some player’s decisions. A lot of moving parts here, let’s see what happens.
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