Chelsea have reportedly joined Manchester United in the race to sign Birmingham City midfielder Jude Bellingham this summer.
Bellingham, 16, has attracted wide interest from his performances in the Championship this season.
The youngster currently earns just £145 a week as a scholar at the club and will not be able to sign a professional contract until June.
And according to a report in the Sun, United and Chelsea are both interested in signing the talented midfielder. La Liga giants Barcelona and Real Madrid are also said to be monitoring Bellingham.
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The report claims United had a bid of £30m January bid for Bellingham rejected with Birmingham holding out for a higher fee for their young star.
Competition has grown to such an extent the player’s asking price has risen exponentially.
Remarkably, it is claimed that United are willing to pay up to £50m (£35m plus £15m add-ons) for the Englishman.
Bellingham has been the standout breakthrough star in the second division this season, making 21 appearances.
It’s clear to see why Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would be interested in a player that fits his recruitment mould of young, exciting British talent perfectly.
However, even for a player of his ability at this age, the fee being demanded still seems excessive for Bellingham.
