AliousBorussia Dortmund have reportedly set their sights on Sunderland’s rising star Jobe Bellingham, initiating contact with the player and keeping him firmly on their transfer radar. According to *Sky Sports Germany*, the Bundesliga giants are interested in bringing the 19-year-old midfielder to their ranks, following the path of his older brother, Jude Bellingham.
### **Bellingham’s Dortmund Link**
Jude Bellingham famously joined Dortmund in 2020 after an impressive breakthrough season at Birmingham City, moving in a deal initially worth £25 million, which later increased due to add-ons. Now, Dortmund appears eager to secure his younger brother, with a potential move for Jobe reportedly carrying a price tag of up to €25 million (£20.8 million).
While no formal negotiations have taken place between Sunderland and Dortmund, reports suggest that the German club is monitoring Jobe closely. Dortmund’s chief scout, Sebastian Krug, is said to maintain a strong relationship with the Bellingham family, stemming from his involvement in Jude’s transfer.
### **Jobe Bellingham’s Impact at Sunderland**
Since signing for Sunderland from Birmingham City in 2023 for £3 million, Jobe Bellingham has quickly become an integral player for the Black Cats. During his debut season, he made 45 appearances in the Championship, and despite Sunderland’s underwhelming 16th-place finish, the midfielder was one of their standout performers.
In the ongoing 2024/25 season, Sunderland has significantly improved, topping the Championship table as they chase promotion to the Premier League. Bellingham has played in 13 of Sunderland’s first 15 matches, showcasing his value to Régis Le Bris’ squad.
### **Key Stats (2024/25 Season)**
– **Appearances**: 58 league games for Sunderland since joining
– **Goals**: 9 in total for the club
– **Assists**: 2
– **Per 90 contributions**:
– Non-penalty goals: 0.16
– Expected assists: 0.09
– Shot-creating actions: 2.14
### **Competition for Bellingham’s Signature**
Dortmund isn’t the only club interested in the young talent. Tottenham Hotspur reportedly approached Bellingham in the summer, only for the midfielder to turn them down. Additionally, Brentford and Crystal Palace have been keeping tabs on his progress, and Spurs could reignite their interest if he continues to shine.
With his contract running until 2028, Sunderland is in a strong position to negotiate. However, a substantial offer from a club like Dortmund could test their resolve, especially with Bellingham’s growing reputation as one of England’s most promising midfielders.
### **Sunderland’s Dilemma**
While cashing in on Bellingham during the January transfer window might bring a financial boost, it could also derail Sunderland’s promotion bid. Losing a player of his caliber mid-season would be a significant blow to the team’s ambitions.
A potential compromise could involve a deal that allows Bellingham to remain at Sunderland on loan for the rest of the campaign, giving the Black Cats the best chance to secure Premier League football while facilitating his move to a top European club.
For Sunderland, holding onto Bellingham—or negotiating an arrangement that benefits both the club and the player—will be crucial as they aim to complete their resurgence this season.
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