REAL MADRID’S pursuit of Jude Bellingham is in doubt as manager Carlo Ancelotti claims he is happy with his current midfield.
The Borussia Dortmund star, 19, has been heavily linked with joining the Spanish champions in the summer.
Recent reports have suggested Real Madrid are the frontrunners to sign the England international ahead of Premier League giants Man City, Liverpool, Man Utd and Chelsea.
However, Ancelotti has insisted he is more than content with his existing midfield options.
Los Blancos boast a plethora of talent in the middle of the park including Luka Modric, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Ceballos, Fede Valverde.
Toni Kroos is also still a part of the squad, although he will retire at the end of the season.
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But the strength in depth in Ancelotti’s side has led to him dismissing a move for Bellingham.
Speaking ahead of Real’s game with Villarreal on Saturday, he said: “Bellingham has shown at the World Cup that he is a great midfielder, but so have others.
“Enzo Fernandez has played very well. Gavi and Pedri as well.
“Bellingham is one of those very good midfielders, but I’ll stick with the ones we have.”
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Ancelotti’s comments will be a boost to the host of English clubs chasing Bellingham’s signature.
The latest reports are that Liverpool are becoming concerned by his price tag given Chelsea are attempting to sign Enzo Fernandez for more than £100million.
Should the Blues complete a deal for the Argentine, 21, it would almost certainly inflate the Dortmund teenager’s value.
Bellingham has contributed 19 goals and 21 assists in 112 appearances since arriving in the Bundesliga in 2020.
He also shone for England at the World Cup, continuing to state his case as one of the best midfielders in the world.
Dortmund currently sit sixth in the German top flight, nine points adrift of leaders Bayern Munich.
They have qualified for the last-16 of the Champions League – where they will face Chelsea.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
