Jobe Bellingham in Jurgen Klopp shock twist amid £21.3m Sunderland transfer news
Jurgen Klopp could have a big say on Jobe Bellingham's future away from Sunderland this summer.
Bellingham has played a key role in Sunderland's road to the Championship playoffs, bagging four goals and three assists in 40 league games.
The 19-year-old's performances for the Black Cats this season have seen him named the Championship Young Player of the Season.
He has also attracted interest from top clubs across Europe as a result, with the Bundesliga emerging as a serious next destination for him.
Klopp wants Bellingham at RB Leipzig
Borussia Dortmund have been credited with a genuine interest in signing Bellingham this summer.
The midfielder is high on the German club's transfer wishlist ahead of the window, according to Sport Bild.
Dortmund hope to use their connections with Bellingham's family to lure the teenager to Signal Iduna Park, having signed his brother, Jude, in a similar move from Birmingham City in 2020.
The German sports magazine reported via their website on Wednesday (7 May) that the Bundesliga outfit still maintain a good relationship with Bellingham's father, Mark.
| Matches | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards | Mintues |
| 40 | 4 | 3 | 9 | 1 | 3507' |
However, Dortmund may have to secure qualification to the UEFA Champions League first, as Bellingham is determined to play in the premier European competition.
Meanwhile, the former Birmingham ace does not have a release clause at Sunderland, meaning the German giants are hopeful of signing him for around £21.3-25.6million.
Klopp, though, could scupper his former club's plans by luring Bellingham to Leipzig instead.
Like Dortmund, Leipzig are keen on acquiring the youngster's services and hope to use the iconic Liverpool manager's connections with the Bellingham family.
Bellingham to leave Sunderland
It looks increasingly likely that Bellingham will end his two-year association with Sunderland this year, especially if the Black Cats fail to earn promotion.
Therefore, it is really important for the Wearside outfit they win the playoffs, so that they are in a strong position in talks over Bellingham's future.
While the rising star could still decide to leave the Stadium of Light, promotion would allow Sunderland to demand significantly more money for his transfer.