According to recent reports, Arsenal is unlikely to pursue a move for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham this summer. Despite being one of the most in-demand players in the upcoming transfer window, with Liverpool, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Chelsea all monitoring his situation at Dortmund, Arsenal seems to have no indication of competing for Bellingham’s signature.
The Gunners are expected to be in the market for at least one new central midfielder this summer, as Mikel Arteta has relied heavily on Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka, and Martin Odegaard this season. However, the price of Bellingham’s transfer, which is likely to be in excess of £100 million plus a high salary, is a key factor behind Arsenal’s decision not to enter the race.
Another reason why Arsenal appears to be bypassing Bellingham is that they have made Declan Rice their top midfield target. The Gunners could bolster their squad with two key signings for the same price as the Dortmund midfielder. Furthermore, former Arsenal scout Francis Cagigao revealed that he recommended the signing of Bellingham to the Gunners, but the midfielder was already too expensive.
Despite Arsenal’s lack of interest in Bellingham, the Gunners look almost certain to be able to offer any potential new signing the prospect of playing in the Champions League next season. This incentive could influence Bellingham’s next move, but it seems unlikely that Arsenal will be the club he chooses.
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