Real Madrid are reportedly expected to eventually win the race for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham.
Since Bellingham established himself as Dortmund's key man, he has constantly been linked with a transfer away from Westfalenstadion.
With just over two years remaining on his contract, it has been perceived that the upcoming transfer window would be the ideal time for the parties to go their separate ways.
Nevertheless, it has become apparent that is not a foregone conclusion due to the finances that it will take to tempt Dortmund into a sale.
Liverpool have allegedly ruled out the prospect of making a nine-figure bid for Bellingham this summer, preferring to spend their funds on more than just one player.
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Manchester City naturally remain as a possible destination for the England international who is known to have made a positive impression on Pep Guardiola.
However, Real Madrid have long been regarded as the favourites, despite a report last month indicating that they were not willing to make a major addition ahead of 2023-24.
According to AS, that has not stopped Bellingham indicating to Los Blancos that he would like to move to the Bernabeu.
The 19-year-old has allegedly decided to shun interest from the Premier League to take the next step of his career at the La Liga giants.
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Earlier this week, it was claimed that contact would be made with the player's representatives in a bid to determine the finer details of any personal terms.
Real are said to be confident that they can negotiate a deal with Dortmund for a fee in the region of €120m (£106.2m), despite previous claims that Dortmund will demand far higher than that fee.
While it is noted that Real would walk away from any deal if Dortmund ask for in excess of that valuation, the report adds that the European champions expect to be able to reach a compromise with their counterparts at the Bundesliga outfit.
As it stands, it appears that Real will push for a transfer this summer, rather than wait a further 12 months to make the next step in their midfield refresh.
Darren Plant
