Borussia Dortmund Increase Efforts To Sign English Star

Borussia Dortmund are intensifying their bid to sign Jobe Bellingham, with senior figures from the club flying to England in a clear signal of intent.

The 19-year-old Sunderland midfielder is now firmly in Dortmund’s sights, and key decision-makers Niko Kovač, Lars Ricken and Sebastian Kehl were seen arriving in Newcastle by private jet on Wednesday, as reported by German outlet *Ruhr Nachrichten*. Their mission was reportedly centred around transfer discussions, and the trio were later spotted returning to Dortmund, though they declined to confirm the nature of their visit.

Bellingham has enjoyed a breakout campaign in the Championship since making the switch from Birmingham City in 2023. Despite Sunderland’s mixed form, his maturity and versatility have made him a mainstay in the side and drawn praise from across English football.

Dortmund’s interest appears rooted not only in talent but also in familiarity. The club previously developed his older brother, Jude Bellingham, into one of Europe’s most coveted midfielders before selling him to Real Madrid in 2023. That shared history could prove a crucial factor in luring the younger Bellingham to the Bundesliga.

According to Ruhr Nachrichten, the German giants are ready to submit an offer of around €22 million. However, Sky Deutschland journalist Patrick Berger believes Sunderland are holding out for closer to €25 million, underlining the midfielder’s rising value.

“#BVB is taking the poker game for Jobe Bellingham (19 ) to the next level. Bosses Ricken and Kehl, as well as coach Kovac and chief scout Krug, were in England for talks. They landed in Dortmund this evening from Newcastle, as images from the RN document. Jude’s brother is said to cost around € 25m. No signing. He has a contract with Sunderland until 2028. Several top international clubs are interested, including Bundesliga club Leipzig.”

While RB Leipzig are also believed to be tracking the England youth international, Dortmund are understood to be at the front of the queue. A deal would represent a significant loss for Sunderland, whose model relies heavily on the acquisition and development of young prospects.

The Black Cats are under no pressure to sell, but with Dortmund’s top brass now personally involved, negotiations could gather speed in the coming days.

Writer’s View

This move has all the hallmarks of a classic Dortmund transfer—identify a gifted youngster, invest early, and nurture them into a star. Jobe Bellingham already has the maturity and skill set to make the leap, and the presence of familiar faces in Dortmund may ease that transition.

For Sunderland, losing him so soon would sting, but the fee involved could fund several smart reinforcements. If a deal is to be done, it feels like a matter of when, not if.