Jude Bellingham may be just 16-years-old, but he's got Europe's elite battling for his signature.
The Birmingham City man (boy?!) has been a key figure for Pep Clotet this season, making 35 appearances in all competitions. In this time, he has managed an impressive four goals and three assists despite playing the majority of the season in the middle of the park.
As a result of his performances, Bellingham has been linked with a number of top sides for a while now. The two clubs that appear most interested in his services are Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund, although a source has told 90min that Liverpool are also still in contention.
The teenager has now fuelled the speculation linking himself with a move to United during a recent Instagram Q&A. Bellingham was asked who his hero was growing up, and in response, the midfielder posted a picture of United and England legend Wayne Rooney.
Good answer, @BellinghamJude #mufc pic.twitter.com/9YDPwfqzGP
— Man United News (@ManUtdMEN) March 25, 2020
Rooney, of course, began his career at Everton and burst onto the scene at 16 years of age, immediately making a name for himself. Despite his tender age, Rooney's talent was there for all to see, and sure enough, United came calling. The Red Devils were able to secure his signature in the summer of 2004 for around £26m - a stunning fee for a teenager.
Rooney handled the pressure of expectation and the price tag that he had to carry despite his young age, and there are clear parallels with the praise that is being heaped on Bellingham. Of course, Rooney went on to become United's record goalscorer, and is renowned as a legend of the club.
Bellingham's family are said to have spoken to ‘senior United officials’ recently in order to gauge the kind of opportunities that would be available if he were to chose Old Trafford, while the player himself was also given a tour of the Red Devils' Carrington training ground.
Dortmund were claimed to be ahead in the race to sign the prodigy, but
It is far from clear where Bellingham will be playing his football next season, although his latest update has fuelled speculation linking him with a move to Old Trafford. One thing that is for certain, however, is Bellingham has a very, very bright future ahead of him.
Source : 90min