Real Madrid are reportedly close to completing a deal to sign highly sought-after Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham.
The 19-year-old England international is one of the most highly-rated midfielders in world football, and his future has been in the news this past season.
Liverpool had been the front runners for his signature. But the Reds backed out of the race due to his high price tag, paving the way for Manchester City, Manchester United and Real Madrid to snap him up.
However, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Los Blancos have won the race for Bellingham, with personal terms already agreed between both parties.
The Italian is seen as a reliable source of transfer information, with his words in transfer dealings often accurate.
On Wednesday, he wrote on Twitter: “Real Madrid are close to completing a deal to sign Jude Bellingham, confirmed. Negotiations are progressing to the final stages. Personal terms are almost agreed — Juni Calafat, crucial again.
“New meeting has been scheduled to complete the agreement with Borussia Dortmund,” he added.
Should they complete the deal to sign Bellingham, Carlo Ancelotti’s side will be further strengthened in their midfield area, which is already stocked with world-class stars.
Los Blancos boasts one of the strongest midfielders in world football, with a mix of youth and experience helping them dominate Spain and Europe. Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, who have lifted five Champions League titles each, are two veterans, while Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni are highly rated.
Meanwhile, Dortmund are expected to demand more than £130 million for Bellingham, who has made 52 appearances for club and country this season.
According to a report by the Spanish publication AS via Sportsbible, the 19-year-old chose Madrid because he believes the club represented the next best stage in his career.
The player is also preparing to inform Ancelotti’s side of his decision’ and that he has decided to begin a new challenge in La Liga.
Suppose he does join the ranks at Los Blancos. In that case, Bellingham will become the fifth British player to wear the famous jersey, following in the footsteps of David Beckham, Gareth Bale, Steve McManaman, Michael Owen and Jonathan Woodgate.