In a move that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Real Madrid, the Spanish titans, have officially confirmed the signing of England’s midfield prodigy, Jude Bellingham.
The deal, inked on Wednesday, is worth a staggering 103 million euros ($111.29 million), plus add-ons, making it one of the most significant transfers in recent history.
Bellingham, who is currently nursing an injury that will see him miss England’s Euro 2024 qualifiers, is set to be unveiled as the latest Galactico on Thursday at noon local time.
The 19-year-old has signed a six-year contract, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his already illustrious career.
The deal was sealed last week, according to Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham’s former club. The agreement includes add-ons that could inflate the total fee by up to 30%, further underlining the high regard in which Bellingham is held.
Bellingham’s move to Madrid places him in an exclusive club, becoming the third player for whom Real Madrid has splashed out at least 100 million euros.
He follows in the footsteps of Gareth Bale (2013) and Eden Hazard (2019), two players who have left indelible marks on the club.
Real Madrid Unveils the Signing of Jude Bellingham
In a statement, Real Madrid hailed Bellingham as “one of the greatest talents in the world,” praising his performances in the Bundesliga, where he was voted the best player.
The club also highlighted his impressive rise to become a starter in the English national team at such a tender age.
Bellingham’s journey to Madrid began in earnest in 2020 when he moved from Birmingham City to Dortmund for 25 million pounds ($31.17 million). At the time, he was the most expensive 17-year-old in football history, a testament to his immense talent.
At Dortmund, Bellingham quickly established himself as a midfield maestro, showcasing exceptional ball control skills and becoming a regular starter.
His performances did not go unnoticed, earning him a call-up to the England national team and making him the youngest English player to represent his country at a major tournament during Euro 2020.
Despite interest from Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Bellingham’s price tag proved too steep. Now, he joins a Real Madrid side brimming with young midfield talent, including Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurelien Tchouameni.
Bellingham’s move is part of a broader rebuilding process at Real Madrid, who are looking to fill the void left by high-profile departures such as Karim Benzema, Hazard, Marco Asensio, and Mariano Diaz.
Meanwhile, back in England, Bellingham’s former club, Birmingham City, is set to receive a windfall of at least £4.3million from the deal. This financial boost is a welcome relief for the Championship club, which is striving to stay within the limits of Financial Fair Play.
Bellingham’s journey from Birmingham to Madrid is a testament to his talent, determination, and hard work. As he embarks on this new adventure, the football world will be watching closely, eager to see how this young star will shine in the Spanish capital.
