Why Manchester United must beat city-rivals to sign Jude Bellingham
According to The Sun, Manchester City are interested in Birmingham’s £30m starlet Jude Bellingham, who is a long-term target of city-rivals Manchester United.
The report suggests that both the Manchester clubs are set to battle each other for the teenager’s signing. He is also wanted by several big teams across Europe including Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund, while La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona are also interested in him.
Bellingham, 16, has endured a brilliant breakthrough season after coming through the youth ranks of Birmingham City. Since making his debut against Portsmouth in the EFL Cup back in August, he has made 28 appearances for the club’s senior side.
He has plundered 4 goals and has one assist to his name in all competitions this term. At the age of 16, he is highly-rated within his club and is emerging as one of the best young players across Europe. Given the La Liga giants interested in him, there is no doubt that the teenager has got loads of potential.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are facing a torrid time in the league, having won just 9 of their 25 games. They have been inconsistent throughout the year despite making big signings last summer.
United’s midfield has been the problem for their poor performance, with only Fred doing well in the past few months. Since Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay got injured, the Brazilian has been impressive but has lacked support from other areas of the pitch.
On the other hand, despite not being dominant, Pep Guardiola’s men have managed to stay at 2nd spot in the league table. They have a very good set of midfielders in their ranks in Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden, David Silva, Kevin De Bruyne. USA international Mix Diskerud has also returned from loan.
City’s forward-thinking midfielders have scored 12 goals and have provided a whopping 25 assists so far in the league. Whereas, United’s midfield has managed just three goals and three assists. Therefore, Manchester United must win the race to sign the teenager, who has done well beyond expectations.
The 16-year-old is capable of playing anywhere in the midfield and has also featured regularly as an attacking midfielder. His versatile nature would help Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to come up with various ideas to build a game.
Moving to Etihad could prove to be costly for Bellingham as he may not be given enough opportunities due to the big names. And without game time, his progress could be hampered. Whereas, United are in dire need of young central midfielders in their ranks.
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Verdict
Having a closer look at both sides indicates that United are deprived of options in the middle of the park. And the uncertainty of Pogba’s future at the club has made it worse for the Old Trafford outfit.
Therefore, United must beat off competition from their rivals and sign the Stourbridge-born talent. In doing so, they will have a good player for the future.
