Pranav Nair
Manchester United lose out as Jude Bellingham agrees to Borussia Dortmund transfer
According to German publication Bild (h/t Daily Mail), Manchester United have lost out on Jude Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund.
The 17-year-old was one of the most sought-after youngsters in European football. His move to Dortmund is worth £22.5m, making him the most expensive teenager in Bundesliga history.
Bellingham enjoyed a breakout season at the senior level in 2019/20. He became the Blues’ youngest ever debutant, having made his first-team appearance aged just 16 years and 38 days.
The youngster has featured 41 times across all competitions this season and has impressed with a return of four goals and three assists.
Bellingham has put pen to paper on a five-year deal that will see him earn £2.7m in wages each year.
United went on a charm offensive to sway him to join the Solskjaer revolution. The youngster was given a tour of the Carrington training ground and even met with Sir Alex Ferguson.
According to the Athletic, Manchester United were caught by surprise on Bellingham’s decision. United also roped in club legend Eric Cantona to help convince the youngster to join.
Bellingham snubbed United over playing time concerns but United chiefs are confused that the decision from the 17-year-old has come before the end of the season.
United could still qualify for the Champions League and remain in the hunt for silverware in the FA Cup and Europa League. They believe that would make them a more attractive option than Dortmund.
Bellingham was concerned he would be stuck in the Under-23s squad. United, however, insist the Englishman had the opportunity to go straight into the first-team.
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This is the second time that we have missed out on a promising player to Dortmund.
