Jude Bellingham has revealed that a move to Liverpool was never as close as rumored, despite persistent speculation linking him to the Premier League club during the 2023 summer transfer window.
The Real Madrid star joined Los Blancos in July 2023, leaving Borussia Dortmund after a stellar stint in the Bundesliga. While several top European clubs, including Liverpool, expressed interest in the England international, Bellingham insists his heart was always set on Madrid.
“It wasn’t as close as people said,” Bellingham explained ahead of Madrid’s Champions League matchup against Liverpool. “There were talks. Dortmund had discussions with several clubs. But when Madrid calls, there’s a special feeling in the whole house. It’s not that the other clubs weren’t great, it’s just that Madrid operates on another level.”
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Bellingham acknowledged Liverpool’s strength, praising their performances this season. “They’re top of the Premier League and the Champions League. They’ve reached an extra level. Tomorrow will be a very good test,” he added.
When asked about the possibility of teaming up with England teammate and close friend Trent Alexander-Arnold, Bellingham was quick to shut down speculation. “I’ll always be by his side with the national team—that’s guaranteed,” he said. “But he’s a Liverpool player, and it’s disrespectful to talk about his future. The focus should be on taking pressure off him. He’s a great friend, and I wish him all the best—except tomorrow.”
Real Madrid will look to make their mark as they travel to Anfield, while Liverpool, sitting just behind Barcelona and Inter in the Champions League standings with a game in hand, aim to maintain their strong form. Madrid, meanwhile, find themselves further down in the competition’s new format and will be eager to climb the rankings.