Real Madrid may reportedly hold discussions with the representatives of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham over the next week.
Although just over two years remain on the contract of the England international, speculation persists that this season may be his last at Westfalenstadion.
Multiple European clubs have been left impressed by his performances and growing maturity at Dortmund, who currently hold a slender lead in the race for the Bundesliga title.
The 19-year-old has contributed five goals and four assists in Germany's top flight, a further four strikes and one assist coming in the Champions League.
Liverpool, a former leading candidate for Bellingham's signature, are said to have ruled out the possibility of moving for the youngster this summer, a consequence of his price tag.
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That has left Manchester City as the most likely destination in the Premier League due to their capability of being able to spend in excess of £100m on his services.
Given Dortmund's valuation of Bellingham, it was claimed earlier this year that Real were unwilling to enter a bidding war for the former Birmingham City youngster during the next transfer window.
Nevertheless, according to Marca, Real officials are keen to hold discussions with Bellingham's camp regarding a future transfer.
The report suggests that Los Blancos have "an open line of communication" with Bellingham's representatives and that progress could theoretically be made.
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If Real stick to their previous alleged stance, president Florentino Perez will not be making any major additions ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.
A previous report alleged that any future moves for Bellingham or Paris Saint-Germain's Kylian Mbappe would be put off until the 2024 summer transfer window.
That has created a scenario where Bellingham may spend one more year at Dortmund, although his current employers are likely to want to ensure that he does not enter the final 12 months of his contract.
While Manchester United have been linked with Bellingham in the past, a transfer to Old Trafford appears unlikely at this stage, particularly when the club are going through a takeover process.
Darren Plant
