Man Utd handed major boost in Bellingham chase

Ian Watson
Jude Bellingham Birmingham City Man Utd

Manchester United’s pursuit of Jude Bellingham has received a major boost after it was reported that Borussia Dortmund have shelved their recruitment activity amid the coronavirus chaos.

United and Dortmund have been chasing the Birmingham youngster, with Bayern Munich and Manchester City also said to be interested.

It was claimed over the weekend that Dortmund had stolen a march on United, despite Bellingham having visited Carrington earlier this month.

But Kicker suggests the Bundesliga club have been forced to put their transfer activity on hold while they assess the fall-out from the coronavirus pandemic and what a season shutdown will do to their finances.

Dortmund’s sporting director Michael Zorc has been quoted as saying: “This summer will be unpleasant.

“After all, we don’t know when to start playing again.

“There is a lot of uncertainty in all clubs. We first have to manage this crisis situation.”

United wanted Bellingham in January but they failed to get a deal over the line. It is thought they are willing to pay Birmingham £15million up front with a further £15million possibly to follow in add-ons.

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