Chelsea make contact with Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham

Chelsea have started to make moves for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham, who has been identified as one of their top targets for the summer of 2023.

A report from BILD (h/t Buli News) states that the Blues have initiated contact with Bellingham’s entourage in an attempt to stay ahead in the transfer race.

More like his former Dortmund teammate Erling Braut Haaland, Bellingham is set to become the subject of a transfer war, with the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Real Madrid keeping close tabs on him.

Chelsea are planning to strengthen the midfield next summer, with Jorginho and N’Golo Kante in the final year of their contracts.

There have been no talks over their renewals yet, and both are heavily linked with a move to Barcelona on a free transfer.

Having already struck a pre-agreement with RB Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku for next season, Todd Boehly wants to continue his impressive business by luring Bellingham to Stamford Bridge.

The 19-year-old’s form hasn’t dropped off since moving to Signal Iduna Park, racking up 15 goals and 20 assists in 105 appearances, including the four goals in four games in the Champions League this season.

Bellingham will be an integral part of the England national team for the World Cup next month. His value might even skyrocket after the competition, with his current asking price set at around €120 million.

Real Madrid are said to be leading the race for Bellingham as they are looking for a replacement for ageing Luka Modric and Toni Kroos.