Manchester City's pursuit of Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham has reportedly been handed a huge boost due to Pep Guardiola signing a new contract with the Premier League champions.
There had been speculation surrounding Guardiola's future, with the Spaniard thought to be considering walking away from the Citizens next summer to seek pastures new.
However, it was announced last week that the 51-year-old had signed a new two-year contract, with his deal at the Etihad Stadium now due to run until the summer of 2025.
According to 90min, Guardiola's decision to remain in Manchester has put the English champions in a strong position to win the race for Bellingham during next summer's transfer window.
The report claims that Bellingham is keen to play under the Man City manager, and the club are confident that the Spaniard's presence puts them at the head of the queue.
© Reuters
The 19-year-old scored his first England goal against Iran in his country's opening match of the 2022 World Cup before also starting the goalless draw with the USA on Friday night.
Bellingham entered the tournament off the back of a strong start to the season for Dortmund, meanwhile, scoring three times and registering two assists in 15 Bundesliga appearances.
Meanwhile, he starred for BVB in the group stage of the Champions League, scoring four goals and registering one assist in five outings.
Bellingham has a contract with Dortmund until June 2025, but he is widely expected to be on the move during next summer's transfer window.
© Reuters
Manchester United, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Chelsea are also said to be in the hunt for the former Birmingham City youngster, who is likely to cost well in excess of £100m.
A recent report claimed that BVB would be looking for around £130m for Bellingham, with his stock rising due to his strong start to the World Cup with England.
The midfielder was linked with a number of Premier League clubs when it became clear that he would be leaving Birmingham at the end of the 2019-20 campaign.
However, Dortmund won the race for his signature, and the teenager has now made 112 appearances for the Bundesliga giants, contributing 19 goals and 21 assists in the process.
Man City are also believed to be preparing to make a move for AC Milan's Rafael Leao next summer.
Matt Law
