Why Bellingham is a ‘source of friction’ in Dortmund dressing room

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 16 Nov 2022 12:40 GMT
• 3 min read

Jude Bellingham is ready to step up his pursuit of a big-money summer transfer – and his Borussia Dortmund team-mates are not happy about it, according to a report from Sport Bild.

Bellingham, who is presently on England national team duty at the World Cup, is wanted by a clutch of Europe’s biggest sides, with a deal expected to be thrashed out in the months to come.

Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Real Madrid are all closely linked with the 19-year-old, who is valued by FootballTransfers at €88 million.

And Bellingham’s behaviour, which suggests he wants a move, is causing aggravation among his Dortmund colleagues.

MORE: Dortmund tell Bellingham he can leave

Bellingham causing Dortmund 'friction'

It is reported in Germany that the BVB players have been frustrated by the “disparaging body language” of the player, which has been evident since the transfer rumours have built around him. It is said that this has been the cause of a “considerable source of friction” at the club, which he has captained on one occasion this season.

Bellingham’s family, furthermore, are ready to seek out concrete offers from those clubs who are interested in the former Birmingham City youth. It is hoped that this will strengthen their negotiating position ahead of the summer. A strong performance at the World Cup will only help his cause.

MORE: Ranking the contenders to sign Jude Bellingham

While the indications are that the player is seeking a deal, from Dortmund’s perspective they are still hoping to tie him down on an extended contract for significantly improved wages. Matching Europe’s strongest clubs, though, is liable to prove too difficult a challenge and a transfer still seems a probable outcome.

Bellingham has been performing to an exceptional level with Dortmund this season. In 22 appearances, he has scored nine goals and created three more, further justifying his status as one of the world’s brightest young performers.

Dortmund, meanwhile, are only sixth in the Bundesliga and struggling to attain Champions League football – the minimum requirement to have any hope of keeping their talented youngster.