Exclusive: Real Madrid now ready to battle for 'incredible' Sunderland youngster next year
Yesterday at 04:45 AM
- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
Sunderland have seen a number of young talents go on to bigger things over the years as the production line continues to churn out talent.
The likes of Jordan Henderson and Jordan Pickford spring to mind, but even the likes of Jack Clarke have to be recognised after earning a Premier League move.
It may not quite be working out for the winger who left in the summer, nevertheless, this just shows how Sunderland are being recognised as a real producer of young talent.
Chris Rigg is receiving interest from Premier League clubs ahead of the upcoming windows having showcased his talent already this season under Regis Le Bris.
However, he is not the only one, as TBR Football understands that Borussia Dortmund could battle with Real Madrid for the signature of Jobe Bellingham in the new year.
Real Madrid eyeing Sunderland’s Jobe Bellingham
Bellingham joined Sunderland in 2023 from Birmingham, and whilst always garnering attention due to the fame of his brother, he has been impressing hugely in his own right in the last 12 months.
Tottenham Hotspur showed summer interest in Bellingham, but the youngster opted to remain in the Championship with the Black Cats.
TBR Football now understands that Dortmund, who have known about Jobe for a long time, have been watching him closely along with Madrid.
Real are now looking to bring in young talent as early as possible, rather than paying inflated fees further down the line.
TBR can confirm Jobe, also a midfielder, is a target for a host of clubs who are ready to test Sunderland’s resolve in 2025 – although they are not expected to sanction his sale in January due to their hope of promotion to the Premier League.
Premier League clubs also keen on signing Bellingham
It is not just some of the biggest clubs from the continent who are eyeing a move for the Sunderland talent ahead of the new year.
TBR understands Arsenal, Chelsea, Aston Villa, Brighton, Brentford and Fulham have watched him this season.
In his 17 Championship appearances this season, Bellingham has returned two goals and two assists having opened his account with a stunning strike.
The 19-year-old is impressing on Wearside with club legend Niall Quinn hailed Bellingham as ‘incredible’ from what he has seen of the midfielder.
There is still a lot for Bellingham to improve on, but it is apparent the top sides in Europe are keen to take him on and help take him to the next level.