As the summer transfer window looms on the horizon, the buzz around Sunderland’s young midfielder Jobe Bellingham is reaching fever pitch.
The teenage sensation has been a standout performer for the Black Cats throughout the season, and his form has seamlessly translated to the international stage, where he notched an assist in England U21s’ 4-2 triumph over Portugal on Monday night.
Now, as he heads back to Wearside for the critical final push in Sunderland’s bid for promotion, speculation about his long-term future in the North East refuses to die down. Here’s a roundup of the latest rumors swirling around the talented youngster that you might not have caught.
Bellingham Fits the Bill for Manchester United
Manchester United have been consistently tied to Bellingham in recent months, and a new report suggests their interest isn’t fading anytime soon.
According to transfer expert Ben Jacobs in an interview with GiveMeSport, the Red Devils see the Sunderland star as a perfect match for their revamped recruitment approach under Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
While Bellingham isn’t reportedly angling for a move just yet, United’s strategy to rejuvenate their squad with youthful, homegrown talent keeps him firmly on their radar.
Jacobs explained:
“There’s no sign of the player forcing a transfer. Nothing concrete has developed between Manchester United and Jobe Bellingham yet.
But what’s clear is that United, under Ratcliffe’s vision, are prioritizing younger players and British prospects—and Bellingham fits that mold perfectly.” This follows Jacobs’ earlier remarks, where he revealed that Crystal Palace are also in hot pursuit of the midfielder.
“Premier League clubs are circling Jobe Bellingham,” he noted. “Palace have already made an attempt and remain keen, while Brentford are keeping tabs too. It’s still early to say if he’ll depart this summer, though.
After signing a new deal with Sunderland until 2028, Jobe’s focused on taking his time with his growth—something his brother Jude has advised him on.
Jude’s own career path showed the value of careful, deliberate steps, avoiding a premature leap, and it worked wonders for him.”
Dortmund’s Slim Hopes of a Bellingham Reunion
On the continent, Borussia Dortmund—where Jude Bellingham made his mark after leaving England—have been linked with a swoop for his younger sibling.
However, German outlet Ruhr Nachrichten suggests their chances are tenuous at best. Despite maintaining ties with the Bellingham family from Jude’s successful stint, Dortmund face an uphill battle, with Premier League clubs currently holding the upper hand in the race for Jobe’s signature.
The Bundesliga outfit might have an “outside shot” at landing him this summer, but the momentum appears to favor England’s top flight for now.