Liverpool currently leading the race for €150 million-rated Real Madrid target – Romano | OneFootball

Speaking on the Born And Red YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano has claimed that at this point Liverpool are leading the race to sign Borussia Dortmund midfielder and Real Madrid target Jude Bellingham.

The 19-year-old midfield sensation is one of the most coveted players in the transfer market ahead of the summer transfer window.

Real Madrid are battling with Liverpool and Manchester City for Bellingham’s signing while clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United have also been linked with the Englishman.

Los Blancos, for their part, have been pushing for the signing of the teenage midfielder for a long time now.

The reigning champions of Spain and Europe were said to be Bellingham’s preference which had seemingly put them in a strong position to sign the England international in the summer.

But, Romano is now claiming that Liverpool are currently ahead in the race for the former Birmingham City ace, although he does insist that things could change in the future, especially when clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City are involved.

“As of today, Liverpool lead the race for Jude Bellingham. But it can change,” Romano said. “Also, when you are in a race with Real Madrid and Manchester City, it is never safe until you sign the contract,” he added.

“If you asked me in January 2022 where Haaland would play, I wouldn’t have said Manchester City, but in March I would have. So Bellingham race is absolutely open.”

While Liverpool, Real Madrid, and City battle it out for his signing, Dortmund are not giving up without a fight. The Black and Yellows are planning to make a contract offer for the 19-year-old which would make him the highest-paid player at the club.

But, in case they are unable to convince him, the German giants will demand a fee of around €150 million for the midfielder’s services.

There is still a lot of time for the summer transfer window, but all parties involved will likely want to close the deal at the earliest possible. Real Madrid will thus have to up the ante if they are to beat Liverpool to Bellingham’s capture.