JUDE BELLINGHAM’S representatives have allegedly started looking at properties in Madrid ahead of his expected transfer to Real from Borussia Dortmund.
We reported this week how the 19-year-old star is on the verge of completing his move to the LaLiga giants although both clubs are still haggling over the final fee.
His German side are holding out for £130million and the England midfielder looks certain to land his massive move this week or next.
The deal would include £105m up front with £25m in add-ons and is a huge increase on the £30m Dortmund paid Birmingham three years ago.
Bellingham’s father Mark has been involved in the negotiations with Real Madrid, who first made contact two years ago, and is believed to have agreed a six-year contract with Los Blancos.
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The ex-Birmingham City ace favoured a move to Spain rather than Manchester City or even Liverpool, who withdrew because they could not afford him.
Bellingham has lived abroad since joining Dortmund at the age of 16, therefore he is already used to life overseas, and the Daily Mail states that “his family have already begun the process of ensuring he will settle in Madrid”.
His “representatives have started inspecting apartments” in the city ahead of his move being officially announced in the coming weeks.
Reports in Spain have also claimed that Madrid's president Florentino Perez has assured boss Carlo Ancelotti that his No.1 transfer target was all but secured.
German newspaper Ruhr Nachrichten also claims that Bellingham handed out farewell gifts at Dortmund after their heartbreaking Bundesliga title collapse last weekend.
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He and his mother Denise allegedly gave out presents after a team meeting on Sunday to colleagues and staff that included a signed pair of football boots to a club security guard, with a farewell message that read: “Thank you!”
Bellingham, who is reportedly set to miss England's upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers amid fears he needs surgery, was named as the Bundesliga player of the season after scoring eight goals and providing five assists in 31 league appearances.
He said: “My team-mates and coaches have helped me to develop.
“I came to the club as a talented lad but I have added elements to my game that have taken it to the next level and that’s down to them.”
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