Sunderland have received a boost in their hopes of keeping hold of Jobe Bellingham this summer after it was revealed that potential suitors are unsure if he is ready for Premier League football.
The 18-year-old has enjoyed a stellar first season at the Stadium of Light, scoring seven times in 47 appearances in all competitions. He made the switch to the North East a year ago for a fee believed to be just £3 million from Birmingham City, although reports emerged yesterday that he could make the jump to the top tier for almost seven times that amount.
It has been well documented over the past few weeks that the likes of Crystal Palace and Brentford are interested in the versatile midfielder. Tottenham Hotspur have also emerged as a contender, where it is claimed that they would be the frontrunners for his signature.
It’s a story which is gathering pace, with journalist Ed Aarons reporting that several European teams are also in the hunt. Meanwhile, TEAMtalk have revealed that Sunderland are hoping they can keep Bellingham at the club, although would reluctantly accept an offer north of £20 million.
It seems as if their chances of retaining his services have taken a bit of a boost, with Give Me Sport stating that although there is concrete interest from the Premier League, clubs are unsure as to whether he is ready to make the step up. Palace have been linked to the youngster for a number of months and have been keeping tabs on his progress for two years. However, their priority would be to recruit players this summer that possess top level experience.
This is a view shared by other potential suitors, but there is still a chance that a bidding war could commence. Given the Eagles’ long standing interest, they could make their move if others make the leap first.
Writer’s View
Although it is a small boost, it is one nonetheless. There is still an abundance of interest in Bellingham and his admirers won’t want to be the ones that missed out on a potential star of the future just because they showed initial reluctance.
It’s a small opening though and it could open up other options. If clubs are unsure whether he is ready for Premier League football, Sunderland may be able to negotiate a deal to bring him back on a season-long loan to give him another full season of first team experience. This could suit all parties, especially because a move up the ladder seems inevitable.
Head of Writing
