Bellingham revelation could trigger explosive move at Barcelona

Tom Weber

• Updated: 12 Apr 2023 15:48 BST
• 3 min read

The recent Jude Bellingham news could have serious repercussions for Barcelona.

Late on Tuesday, an avalanche of breaking news came out of Merseyside with Liverpool media revealing that the Reds had effectively ended their pursuit of Jude Bellingham. Instead of breaking the bank on one player deemed worth up to €130 million and more, the club had, it was announced, decided to target two to three cheaper alternatives in order to fully freshen up their midfield after a tortuous season.

Afterwards, German outlet Sport Bild had similarly explosive news when they asserted that Bellingham has made up his mind when it comes to which clubs he would and wouldn't join. The report disclosed that the 19-year-old is more interested in signing for a club with "passion, honour and reputation" rather than money which, if true, will also spell the end of Chelsea's interest in the wonderkid.

READ: FSG fail Liverpool by pulling out of Bellingham move

These developments could, in turn, prove disastrous for Barcelona.

Here is where Barcelona come in

Both Liverpool and Chelsea have long since been linked with a move for Blaugrana midfielder Gavi who could be available on a free transfer this summer due to a quirk in his contract. With both clubs unable to go in for Bellingham, they could now focus all of their energies on securing the precocious Spanish youngster.

The 18-year-old has made 40 appearances across all competitions and played a crucial role in Barcelona's charge to the LaLiga title despite his tender years.

READ: Confirmed! Chelsea met with Gavi agent - but not why you think

He could be free to leave in the summer, however, because when he signed a contract extension, he was still registered as an academy player. A clause in his new deal states that he can leave as a free agent if he is not registered as a first-teamer by June 30, 2023, and Barcelona are as yet unable to do that because of their ongoing financial troubles, opening the door for a potential departure to England.