WHAT HAPPENED? Borussia Dortmund announced on Wednesday the signing of Jude Bellingham by Real Madrid for a record amount of 103 million euros. The 19-year-old midfielder wrote an emotional message to thank the club and fans for their love and support.
WHAT THEY SAID: “I can’t thank this club enough for everything it has done for me. The opportunities, the experiences, the ups and downs. It’s all been part of what has been a wonderful progression for both the human and the player. Having represented this football club as occasionally as I have, I would like to thank all the players, coaches, bosses and staff who have played a role in my time at the club. At all times I will have a place for BVB in my centre and it will never have the effect on the values of the club that it has had in my life,” Bellingham wrote in his message.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: The Whites have lost several dressing room heavyweights this summer, while Karim Benzema, Eden Hazard and Marco Asensio have left the club. With the eventual departure of veterans Luka Modric and Toni Kroos in sight, Real have secured one of the world’s most sought-after midfield talents at Bellingham.
He is part of Madrid’s new strategy to secure the ability of youngsters and joins the young midfielder of Eduardo Camavinga, Fede Valverde and Aurélien Tchouameni.
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WHAT IS THE FUTURE FOR BELLINGHAM? Bellingham is expected to continue his rehabilitation from a knee injury and will miss England’s upcoming friendlies. He will be in a position to sign for Los Blancos next season.