Jobe Bellingham could be heading for a high-profile summer transfer as Borussia Dortmund intensify efforts to sign the Sunderland midfielder.
The Bundesliga giants have sent senior figures to England to push forward negotiations. According to Ruhr Nachrichten, BVB head coach Niko Kovač, managing director Lars Ricken and sporting director Sebastian Kehl travelled to Newcastle by private jet on Wednesday. Their visit was understood to be part of efforts to negotiate the signing of the 19-year-old, who has emerged as one of the Championship’s most promising talents.
The officials were later spotted at Dortmund airport upon their return, but refused to comment on the purpose of their trip. However, widespread reports in Germany suggest the club are now ramping up attempts to secure Bellingham’s signature.
The teenager is the younger brother of Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham, who previously enjoyed a successful three-year spell with Dortmund before moving to Spain in 2023. That connection could yet prove decisive, with BVB reportedly maintaining strong ties with the Bellingham family.
Ruhr Nachrichten claim that Dortmund are prepared to offer around €22 million for the Sunderland midfielder, although Sky Deutschland journalist Patrick Berger has stated the Championship side value Bellingham at closer to €25 million.
🚨⚫️🟡 #BVB zündet die nächste Stufe im Poker um Jobe Bellingham (19/🏴). Die Bosse Ricken und Kehl sowie Trainer Kovac und Chefscout Krug waren zu Gesprächen in England. Sie sind heute Abend aus Newcastle kommend in Dortmund gelandet, wie Bilder der RN dokumentieren.
Der… pic.twitter.com/8pNNRP1axa
— Patrick Berger (@berger_pj) May 7, 2025
Bellingham has been a standout figure for the Black Cats since arriving from Birmingham City in 2023. His versatility, energy and maturity beyond his years have made him a regular in the Sunderland starting XI, and his performances have drawn praise from across English football.
RB Leipzig are also believed to be monitoring the situation, but it is Dortmund who are currently leading the race. If a deal is struck, it would mark a significant departure for Sunderland, who have built their squad around young, high-potential talent under their current recruitment model.
Writer’s View
Borussia Dortmund’s interest in Jobe Bellingham is no surprise—he fits the club’s established profile of signing and developing elite young talent. With the added pull of his brother’s legacy at Signal Iduna Park, the German side may have a unique edge in negotiations.
Sunderland will be reluctant to part with such a promising player, but a substantial offer could be too good to refuse. If Dortmund meet the Black Cats’ valuation, Bellingham’s next step could well be the Bundesliga.
