"I heard..." - Respected journalist claims Liverpool have a "good chance" of signing key transfer target

Respected journalist Gianluca DiMarzio has claimed that Liverpool have a 'good chance' of signing Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham this summer, in a new boost to Reds fans.

The Reds have been long been linked with a move to sign the 19-year-old England international, with various reports that he would cost a fee of £100 million plus bonuses.

Spanish football expert Guillem Balague told ITV Sport on Sunday that he believes Real Madrid are favourites to sign the midfielder, even though Real boss Carlo Ancelotti has appeared to rule out a move.

And Bellingham fuelled more speculation earlier this week when, following a Dortmund training session, he signed a supporter's Real shirt.

However, Liverpool are said to be confident that they can secure the signature of Bellingham, who would solve some of the Reds' midfield issues that are currently present.

Now, supporters have been handed a boost with the comments made by DiMarzio.

Liverpool reportedly have 'good chance' of signing Bellingham

Speaking to CaughtOffside (as per Liverpool Echo), DiMarzio explained: "There's not much in the way hope that Jude Bellingham will stay at Borussia Dortmund ... they told him that if there's a big opportunity for him, he can leave.

"They have to talk, if he wants to talk. I think they have to talk. I think they will have to talk. I noted on a Twitter a few weeks ago that his father is very keen on the prospect of his boy going to Liverpool.

"I don't think a January exit will happen. Dortmund doesn't like to do that. Money will be the main point for Liverpool, but don't forget about Real Madrid as they have more at the moment.

"I heard in Liverpool that Jurgen Klopp really wants him. We call him a 'mancatcher' - if he wants to pursue a person, he can do that, but he also has to pursue the club. I heard the club has about £200-250 million that they want to spend in the summer, so there's a good chance they get Bellingham."

Fans will hope a portion of the reported money available can be spent on Bellingham, who could help Liverpool back to the summit of the Premier League again.