Balague says it’s ‘quite clear’ who are most likely side to sign Bellingham now, his price has just gone up

Real Madrid are the ‘clear’ front-runners to sign top Liverpool transfer target Jude Bellingham this summer.

That’s according to journalist Guillem Balague. Speaking on ITV Sport’s coverage of La Liga, Balague claimed that the Spanish champions are currently leading the race to sign Bellingham.

“It’s not to say that it is Real Madrid [Bellingham’s next destination]. They are the favourites, quite clearly. Borussia Dortmund have to have a conversation with the player and with his dad, who is key to the solution to his situation. They have always been aware of where to place him or where to go next. Dortmund was the perfect place where he could develop his skills and his personality,” explained the journalist.

Balague then went on to claim that Bellingham’s price will be a staggering £140m, with £40m in ‘bonuses’ on top. According to him, Madrid would have no issue paying such a sum.

“He is ready for Real Madrid and Real Madrid are ready for him. The price is about £140 million. Plus £40 million on certain bonuses,” Balague claimed. “Real Madrid are saying ‘yeah, no problem’.”

“We do know that other clubs want him. I do think Real Madrid are favourites. He really fits what Real Madrid are doing and what Jude is doing next.”