Jürgen Klopp hails ‘exceptional’ Jude Bellingham amid Liverpool interest

Liverpool head coach Jürgen Klopp has heaped praise on Jude Bellingham, with several top clubs in Europe competing for the midfielder’s signature.

Jude Bellingham is enjoying an excellent season with Borussia Dortmund, and also showed his exceptional talent at the recently concluded FIFA World Cup. The England international’s performances have seen him attract the interest of some of the world’s biggest clubs.

Liverpool are said to be one of the three teams in the race for Bellingham’s signature. And Jürgen Klopp was full of praise of the midfielder ahead of their game against Aston Villa. The former Borussia Dortmund head coach hailed Bellingham’s maturity, and said:

"“If you mention to someone who has no clue about football: ‘How old do you think Jude Bellingham is?’ I don’t think anyone would get even close to his age. They would say 28 or 29 because he plays so mature. He played an exceptional World Cup. Absolutely exceptional.”"

There has been plenty of speculation surrounding Bellingham’s future in recent weeks, with some reports claiming that Borussia Dortmund will demand a fee in the region of 150 million euros if he decides to leave the club in the summer. But Klopp said that speaking about the price tag could put unnecessary pressure on the 19 year old and be a hurdle in his development.

"“He is a really good player. I have thought that already for two or three years since he had his breakthrough at Dortmund.”“Everybody knew already but I have no idea what that means for the money side of it. I really think if we all want to do him a favour then we do not talk too much about money. I mean that from an England point of view. Do not throw any hurdles in his development.”"

Jude Bellingham has been one of Borussia Dortmund’s top performers since joining the club from Birmingham City in 2020. He has quickly established himself as an important player for both club and country. And he no doubt has the potential to become the best midfielder in the world.

Bellingham still has two and a half years left on his Borussia Dortmund contract. And the Black and Yellows will certainly be hoping that he decides to stay on for another season.