Sunderland`s highly-rated midfielder Jobe Bellingham, who is attracting significant transfer interest this summer, has reportedly declined one potential move in Germany.
While fellow young player Tommy Watson is already confirmed to be joining Brighton, speculation continues regarding other key Sunderland stars. Jobe Bellingham, in particular, is the subject of intense interest from several Premier League clubs and prominent Bundesliga teams.
The 19-year-old midfielder played a key role for Sunderland and is seen as a major talent. Although the club is keen to retain him, German sides are actively trying to persuade Bellingham to make a move.
Representatives from Borussia Dortmund have reportedly travelled to England for discussions, and RB Leipzig are also understood to be interested.
Reports indicate that following Sunderland`s recent successful playoff campaign, Bellingham travelled to Germany to visit the facilities at Eintracht Frankfurt and engage in talks about his future. However, subsequent claims from Germany suggest that Bellingham has now decided against a transfer to Eintracht Frankfurt, the club that finished third in the Bundesliga last season.
The exact reasons for his reported rejection of Frankfurt are not yet clear. It is widely believed that Borussia Dortmund currently leads the race for his signature, partly due to their strong relationship with the Bellingham family, built during his brother Jude`s successful spell at the club, and the appeal of playing Champions League football next season. While RB Leipzig remains in contention, Dortmund`s elite European status could give them a significant advantage.
Sunderland is understandably reluctant to lose such a promising young talent. It is suggested that a substantial transfer fee, potentially in the region of €30 million (approximately £25.5 million), would be necessary to convince the Championship club to sell. Bellingham still has three years remaining on his contract with Sunderland.
With the summer transfer window now active, all attention will be on Jobe Bellingham`s decision regarding his future.
