"It was not as close as the media portrayed" - Jude Bellingham on joining Real Madrid over Liverpool
Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham has suggested a move to Liverpool in the summer of 2023 wasn't as close as many thought. The English midfielder was heavily linked with the Reds but headed to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Bellingham, 21, joined Los Blancos from Borussia Dortmund in July 2023 for €113 million. The transfer came after months of speculation suggesting he'd join Jurgen Klopp's Merseysiders.
Yet, Bellingham feels the media got carried away with a potential move to Anfield. He explained why he was eager to join Real Madrid (via Madrid Zone):
"Not signing for Liverpool? It was not as close as the media portrayed it to be. When Real Madrid knock on the door, it shakes the whole house."
Bellingham enjoyed a stellar 2023-24 campaign at the Bernabeu, with 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 games across competitions. He was part of a Madrid team that won the UEFA Champions League, the La Liga title and the Supercopa de Espana.
There was talk of the young Englishman linking up with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Henderson at Anfield. They were seen together throughout the 2022 FIFA World Cup and soon after, with many pondering a potential reunion at club level.
"I already do in England" - Bellingham on Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold joining him at Real Madrid
Many expected Bellingham to be club teammates with Alexander-Arnold at Liverpool, but the move didn't happen. The Reds weren't willing to stump up the same astronomical fee Real Madrid paid Dortmund for his services.
However, Alexander-Arnold's contract expires next summer, and he's been linked with a move to Madrid. He's yet to agree on a new deal, and he's viewed as Dani Carvajal's long-term replacement.
Bellingham was asked about his friend's situation and whether he could play with him at the Bernabeu. He said (via the source above):
"Playing with Trent? I already do in England."
Alexander-Arnold, 26, has been shining this season with two assists in 15 games across competitions. The Reds' vice-captain has played a significant role in Arne Slot's Merseysiders leading the Premier League and Champions League table.
The England teammates will likely face one another in tomorrow's European encounter at Anfield. Alexander-Arnold has been named in the squad after a recent spell out with injury.
Alexander-Arnold has been with Liverpool his entire career but has a huge decision to make. As time goes on, it looks increasingly likely that he'll depart.
