Sunderland star Jobe Bellingham could be at the centre of a transfer dispute between three Premier League clubs, The Pitch Prospect has learned.
The 18-year-old, brother of England hero Jude, had a great first season at the Stadium of Light after moving from Birmingham last summer.
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He contributed seven goals and one assist in 45 Championship games, helping the Black Cats to a 16th-place finish.
This is an impressive performance from the teenager considering he has been used as a striker as well as in attacking and defensive midfield.
And the form of the England youth international has attracted interest from top teams such as Crystal Palace, Brentford and Southampton.
However, Sunderland are determined to keep hold of the player and have demanded a transfer fee of at least £20 million in the hope of deterring potential suitors.
Following the end of the 2023/23 championship season, Bellingham spoke about his future and looked back on his first year in red and white.
And in a possible blow to his admirers, he hinted that he would like to continue his development on Wearside.
Regarding his goals for next season, Bellingham joked that he could not wait to play in the club’s new jerseys.
He told Sunderland’s media department: “Obviously I’ve seen the shirts, that’s probably the most exciting thing at the moment.
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“Because they are obviously great. But no, I haven’t set myself any goals yet. That will be in the summer, when we start preparing for the season again.
“I think that’s the best way to do it: just focus on what’s in front of you.”
When asked about his plans for improvement, he noted: “If you’re like me, you just want to reach the next milestone and keep improving.
“I feel a strong need to improve and stuff. And sometimes it makes me a little bit impatient, but it’s definitely something important to look back on and be really proud of yourself.
“Because there are things I should be proud of. But at the same time, I don’t want to stand still and just look at the past.”
“I want to make sure I continue to improve and get better. But at the end of the season I can definitely look back and be proud.”
Bellingham is currently in Germany cheering on his brother and the Three Lions at the 2024 European Championships. He was spotted in the stands next to his parents.