"Pay attention to Liverpool" - Journalist claims world class midfielder everyone wants could be on his way to Anfield

Liverpool are in the driving seat to sign Borrusia Dortmund wonderkid Jude Bellingham, according to reports.

The Reds have endured a woeful start to the season and currently sit in ninth place, eight points behind Newcastle United in fourth, and 15 points behind table toppers Arsenal.

Much of Liverpool’s early season woe has come from being weak in midfield.

Thiago Alcântara has suffered niggling injuries at various points. Jordan Henderson’s fitness has meant he is also no longer an automatic starter for Reds boss Jurgen Klopp. Meanwhile, Fabinho has looked uncharacteristically lethargic and leggy.

But 19-year-old Dortmund star Bellingham would go a long way to addressing Liverpool’s midfield issues.

According to journalist Rudy Galetti, Liverpool are ahead of La Liga giants Real Madrid in the race to sign the England man.

Galetti wrote in Tribal Football: “The good relationship between Blancos and BVB could facilitate the negotiation. But Real Madrid must pay attention to Liverpool, who have long been on the trail of the English midfielder.

“Jude, at the moment, seems to prefer Premier League to La Liga. And this is the main barrier to be overcome.

“The midfielder’s contract expires in 2025 and finding an agreement with the agent on personal terms (currently his salary is around 1,6 million euros) does not seem to be an issue.

“But the will to come back home, to his own England, may be stronger than any tempting contract and cause some headaches for Florentino.”

The Birmingham-born all-action midfielder is having another brilliant season in Germany.

He has netted nine times and provided two assists in his 19 appearances for Dortmund, while he has also taken up the responsibility of the captain’s armband on several occasions.

Los Blancos have reportedly been impressed by Bellingham’s performances in the Champions League this term and see the England international as a potential Luka Modric replacement.