RB Leipzig hold ‘initial talks’ for Jobe Bellingham transfer amid Birmingham City clause

RB Leipzig have reportedly stolen a march in the race to sign Jobe Bellingham in the summer transfer window, with talks already being held

RB Leipzig are reportedly leading Manchester United in the pursuit of Jobe Bellingham ahead of the summer transfer window opening.

United are one of the clubs to have shown interest in the Sunderland midfielder as they attempt to sign a second Bellingham.

During his early days at Birmingham City, Jobe’s older brother Jude was courted by the Reds, even meeting with Sir Alex Ferguson during a visit to Carrington.

However, Borussia Dortmund managed to present a more appealing prospect to the elder Bellingham, who has since thrived in the Bundesliga. Now, it seems that younger Bellingham may also choose a German club over United.

It’s a development that the Blues will be watching with keen interest, given the Daily Mail says Birmingham inserted a 15 percent sell-on clause in the deal which saw Jobe move to Sunderland in 2023.

Sky Sport Deutschland reporter Florian Plettenberg suggests that RB Leipzig are keen on signing Bellingham following his impressive season with Sunderland in the Championship.

The 19-year-old has been a consistent presence in the Black Cats’ squad when fit, and Leipzig believe he could emulate his brother’s success.

Preliminary discussions have reportedly taken place between the Bundesliga side, where Jurgen Klopp serves as head of football operations, and Sunderland regarding a potential transfer.

Although the deal is currently deemed ‘too expensive’ for RB Leipzig, they haven’t ruled out securing the signing, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Jobe’s contract at the Stadium of Light is set to run out in 2028, but it’s thought that the midfielder could be on the move this summer, particularly if Sunderland fail to secure promotion to the Premier League. There have already been several enquiries about the young player.