Borussia Dortmund are not considering selling Jobe Bellingham amid speculation over the youngster’s future and fresh links with Manchester United.
Bellingham, 20, the younger brother of Real Madrid superstar, Jude, has failed to establish himself as a regular starter in Dortmund, starting just two Bundesliga games this term under Dortmund manager Niko Kovac.
There have been suggestions that Bellingham is frustrated with his game time so far this season, but club insiders insist there is a clear long-term plan in place for his development.
Dortmund always intended to ease him in gradually and still believe he has huge growth potential in the Bundesliga.
Though United are reportedly interested in the youngster, reports have indicated that no immediate opportunity has opened up for the midfielder to make a significant move to the Premier League, and Dortmund remain keen to retain him.
Jobe Bellingham in action during the Bundesliga match between Borussia Dortmund and VfL Wolfsburg (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
The German side took a calculated gamble when signing him from Sunderland over the summer, aiming to elevate his level and profile – and they have already begun giving him Champions League exposure to accelerate that progress.
Despite being linked with a return to the Premier League, it is not thought that any Premier League club could currently offer him the same platform or development pathway he enjoys at Dortmund.
As things stand, it is expected he will remain at Dortmund for the rest of the season at least, as the club look to continue his progression in a stable environment.
He is expected to feature in upcoming games against Bayern Munich and FC Copenhagen after the international break – and those occasions can help reassure him of his decision to move to Dortmund.
Aside from Manchester United, Crystal Palace were also keen on the midfielder over the summer, and they are thought to be keeping tabs on his situation.
Currently contracted with Dortmund until 2030, Bellingham might seek a January move but the German side have no plans at present to let him go.
Dortmund paid around £31m (including add-ons) to sign Bellingham and still believe he has what it takes to make it at the highest level.
