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Bellingham Clarifies Liverpool Links, Reaffirms Focus on Real Madrid Ahead of Champions League Clash
Jude Bellingham has addressed the rumors surrounding his potential move to Liverpool during the 2023 summer transfer window, revealing that a switch to the Premier League club was never as close as speculated.
The Real Madrid midfielder, who made a high-profile move from Borussia Dortmund to the Spanish giants in July 2023, has been in sensational form since joining Los Blancos.
Following a standout career in the Bundesliga, Bellingham attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Liverpool.
However, the England international has made it clear that his primary ambition was always to move to Madrid. “It [a move to Liverpool] wasn’t as close as they said,” Bellingham told reporters ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League showdown with Liverpool. “There were talks. Dortmund was there and I did it with several clubs. When Madrid calls you, there are vibes in the whole house. It’s not that the others weren’t good, it’s that Madrid is on another level.”
Bellingham’s comments underline the pull of Real Madrid, a club that has consistently been a powerhouse in both La Liga and European competitions. “They are first in the Premier League and the Champions League, they are a good team. They have reached an extra level… [Wednesday] will be a very good test,” he added.
The 20-year-old was also asked about his friendship with Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is rumored to be part of a potential lunch meeting between Liverpool and Madrid. While Bellingham expressed his admiration for his England teammate, he made it clear that he would not entertain speculation about a future move for Alexander-Arnold.
“I’ll be by his side with the national team, so that’s guaranteed,” Bellingham stated. “He’s a Liverpool player, and talking about the future is disrespectful. The important thing is to take the pressure off him. He’s a great friend, and I wish him all the best. Except tomorrow [Wednesday].”
As Real Madrid prepares for their midweek Champions League clash with Liverpool at Anfield, both teams find themselves in the thick of the competition.
While Liverpool sits just behind Barcelona and Inter in the Champions League’s new-look format with a game in hand, Madrid occupies a lower position in 21st place. Both sides will be eager to secure valuable points as they push for European glory.