Sources: Long-term Liverpool target hints at exit as the Reds emerge to be favorites to sign him

Liverpool have had somewhat of a boost in the pursuit of their long-term midfield target, Jude Bellingham, as he has refused new and improved contract talks with the current club.

The reports from AS claim that Real Madrid have sent an emissary to talk to the 19-year-old and his family in Germany. Even though some reports say that the Los Blancos have made the first contact, many belive that Liverpool are still the favorites in signing their long-term target.

The current Champions League winners will have to ‘bid hard with Liverpool’ to win the battle for the midfielder’s signature.

The sources from Dortmund stated that the player ‘refused to meet the club’s leaders to discuss an improved deal’. Furthermore, AS added that the Englishman is evident to leave the Bundesliga side, this summer.

Liverpool or Madrid: who needs their midfield target more?

With the aging midfield of Kroos (33) and Modric (37) at Madrid, the Spanish giants look to rope in Bellingham. The 19-year-old looks one for the future of the Galacticos with Tchouaméni (23) and Camavinga (20) already an important part of the midfield.

However, the Reds’ midfield situation is perfect for the Englishman as he is guaranteed to be a starter, week in, week out.

With the contracts of Milner, Chamberlain, and Keita expiring at the end of this season, a major midfield overhaul is due. Also, with inconsistent displays in the midfield from Henderson and Fabinho, a big signing like Jude seems crucial.

However, even with the asking price being well above €100 million, both clubs are ready to meet the fee. It is also reported that The Spanish club’s proposal could be €100m plus €40m bonuses.

Also, the Dortmund man has made it a priority to join a club playing in the Champions League. The Reds are currently in 6th and 6 points behind 4th-placed Spurs.

It has been an inconsistent season for LFC with their recent loss to Bournemouth in the league. Thus, making things more difficult for the Merseyside club in their hunt to the Top 4.

While it remains to be seen where the Englishman would play in the next season.

Sai Akshay

I’m a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.