Real Madrid have announced the signing of English midfielder Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund for a base fee of €103m.
The 19-year-old will be announced as a Madrid player on Thursday at 12:00 CET and will speak to the media. On his departure from Dortmund, Bellingham said: “Thanks to everyone at BVB and to the fans for everything over the past three years. It was an honour to wear your jersey so often, in big and small moments. Even if I am looking forward to my next destination, I will never forget the trip there. Once Borusse, always Borusse. All the best for the future. Heja BVB!”
Bellingham signs a six-year contract at Real until 2029. The base fee for the 19-year-old is €103m, but with add-ons, the fee could reach close to €137m with the add-ons being worth 30% of the original fee, Dortmund announced the sale last week through an ad-hoc statement.
Sporting director Sebastian Kehl also commented on the Englishman’s departure: “Jude took a very positive development with us at a young age. He has now decided to take the step to Real Madrid now. We thank Jude for everything he has given us and our game and wish Jude all the best for the future.” Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke added: “We thank Jude for three years of passion for Borussia Dortmund. It was a fantastic time together, says the chairman of the management. Our thanks also go to Real Madrid for the always fair and constructive discussions.”
In his final season in the Bundesliga, Bellingham was named Bundesliga Player of the Season as Dortmund finished second in the league losing the title on goal difference. The 19-year-old played 42 times, scoring 14 and assisting seven.
The 19-year-old joined Dortmund in 2020 from his hometown team Birmingham City for €25m. During his three-year stay, he was only able to win the DFB Pokal but became a vital part of the squad in his final two years. Bellingham was the third captain of the Dortmund team behind Marco Reus and Mats Hummels.
GGFN | Jack Meenan
