Borussia Dortmund step up interest in Sunderland’s Jobe Bellingham

Borussia Dortmund have reportedly increased their efforts to sign Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham, the younger brother of Real Madrid and England midfielder Jude Bellingham.

Dortmund are among Mamelodi Sundowns’ opponents at the Club World Cup, but their attention has also turned to the transfer market, with Bellingham emerging as a target.

The 19-year-old has impressed in the Championship this season while Sunderland continue their promotion campaign in the play-offs. His performances have attracted interest from Manchester United, although reports in Germany suggest Dortmund are now trying to secure the second Bellingham in the family.

Sky Germany reported that Dortmund’s club chiefs and head coach Niko Kovac travelled to England this week to discuss a possible transfer with Jobe Bellingham.

Any deal could prove difficult because Bellingham remains under contract at Sunderland until 2028. The midfielder is therefore tied to the club for several more seasons unless an agreement is reached between the two sides.

The interest comes as Dortmund look to benefit from the success they enjoyed with Jude Bellingham, who joined the German club from Birmingham City before moving to Real Madrid. The Bundesliga side have also worked with English players including Sancho and Gittens, according to former Germany international Dietmar Hamann.

Hamann believes Jobe Bellingham would be capable of adapting to German football, particularly after gaining experience in the demanding Championship.

“He’s a very talented player who is in the playoffs for promotion to the Premier League with AFC Sunderland. The English second tier is one of the toughest leagues in Europe. Physicality is paramount in the Championship. It takes determination and character to make it there, and he achieved that as a young player. Once he’s played there for two years and scored goals, nothing will scare him in the Bundesliga.”

Hamann also highlighted Dortmund’s previous experience of developing young English talent and backed the club to pursue a deal.

“BVB has had very positive experiences with Jude Bellingham, Sancho, and Gittens. Jobe Bellingham could help BVB with his qualities. Let’s hope for Dortmund’s sake that they get him,” he wrote.

Bellingham’s immediate focus remains Sunderland’s play-off campaign, with the club seeking promotion to the Premier League. The midfielder has established himself at Championship level despite his age, helping to generate interest from both England and Germany.

Dortmund’s reported approach comes after a separate official announcement that Liverpool have parted ways with Alexander-Arnold.