Arsenal, the Premier League table leaders, are unlikely to join the race for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham’s signature, despite interest from several elite clubs, including Manchester United and Chelsea. Bellingham has been in great form since joining Dortmund from Birmingham City and has attracted attention from various clubs across Europe. However, Arsenal has other ideas when it comes to strengthening their squad, according to sources.
Bellingham’s Impressive Performances
Since moving from Birmingham City to Borussia Dortmund, Jude Bellingham has been a revelation on the football pitch. The English teenager is making waves for his ability to retain possession under pressure and his sensational long-range passing skills. His adaptability to play in multiple positions in the midfield makes him a valuable asset for any team.
Arsenal Holds Back on Bellingham Transfer
Despite their position at the top of the Premier League table, Arsenal are unlikely to make a move for the young midfielder. There are two key reasons behind this decision. Firstly, signing Bellingham would obliterate Arsenal’s transfer record, currently held by Nicolas Pepe at £72m. With Borussia Dortmund likely demanding over £100m for the midfielder’s signature, investing all that money in one player will hurt their chances of strengthening themselves in other positions like forward and full-back.
Secondly, there is also the issue of his salary demands as even if Arsenal could pay his high transfer fee, they’d have to stump up huge wages which could create tension in the dressing room. Hence they are looking at alternative targets with similar profiles but demanding modest salaries.
A High Demanded Transfer
The buying club that lands Jude Bellingham world likely have to spend more than £100m and consider the cost of his wages which stand at around £120k per week, making him one of the highest-paid teenagers in world football. While clubs like Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea are all eager to sign him, Arsenal appears to be the exception.
Top Target Declan Rice
Arsenal have reportedly made Declan Rice their top midfield target with the West Ham United midfielder being available for a much lower price compared to Bellingham. Though they will need to convince him that moving to the Emirates Stadium makes sense as long he has options elsewhere where he could earn more and play for a better club.
Speculation on Bellingham’s Future
Borussia Dortmund boss Edin Terzic sees the speculation over Jude Bellingham’s future as a topic for the future as they concentrate on winning the Bundesliga. The young midfielder has been linked with several top clubs across Europe, including Arsenal. Former Arsenal scout Francis Cagigao recommended the signing of Bellingham to the Gunners. However, he was already too costly when he was at Birmingham City.
Former Manchester City and Chelsea player Shaun Wright-Phillips thinks that if Bellingham wants to win trophies in the coming years, he could choose to join Arsenal as it offers him an opportunity to partner with other young star players like Bukayo Saka and William Saliba which will accelerate his development while playing in Champions League football next season alongside Aubameyang.
Conclusion
Despite Jude Bellingham’s impressive performances this season, Arsenal is unlikely to bid for his services. The high transfer fee and salary demands pose risks that could hinder Arsenal’s chances of strengthening their squad in other areas. With young talents already present in their squad, Arsenal can focus on other alternative targets like Declan Rice who has similar profiles but would also come at modest salaries.
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