Liverpool leading Manchester United in the race for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham

Manchester United and Liverpool are both considered favourites to get Borussia Dortmund midfielder, Jude Bellingham. However, the Merseysiders are best placed to get the 19-year-old, according to The Telegraph (Subscription Required) [h/t Metro].

Bellingham left boyhood club Birmingham City in the summer of 2020 to join the Bundesliga. In Germany, the 19-year-old has immediately established himself as a regular.

As of now, the England international is one of the most sought-after prospects. Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid have also been linked with the 19-year-old.

In the previous campaign, Bellingham featured 44 times for Dortmund in all competitions. While he played in the number eight role the most, the England international has also been deployed as the pivot or out wide in the midfield.

United’s bolstered midfield

United signed a couple of quality midfielders in the recent transfer window. Christian Eriksen, who had a short stint at Brentford, came to United as a free agent. The Danish national has wasted no time settling into Erik ten Hag’s team.

While Eriksen has mostly played in the number 10 role throughout his career, Ten Hag has deployed the Denmark international in the box-to-box role. He had a fruitful spell playing there for Thomas Frank as well.

United have also spent big money to recruit Casemiro to the ranks. The Brazilian arrived from Real Madrid, having won multiple Champions League trophies.

Casemiro is a robust character. Fans who have seen him play regularly know that the 30-year-old breaks down opposition attacks by hook or by crook. The Brazilian marshals the middle of the park and shields the backline effectively.

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However, United could still do with someone like Bellingham. The midfielder’s age makes him someone capable of leading the engine room for many years. However, United will have to pull off a coup to entice the 19-year-old to Old Trafford.