Jobe Bellingham reportedly to follow brother Jude’s footsteps after earning Premier League promotion with Sunderland
Jobe Bellingham has emerged as one of English soccer’s rising stars, playing a pivotal role in Sunderland’s dramatic return to the Premier League. At just 19 years old, the midfielder is reportedly on track to follow in the footsteps of his older brother, Jude Bellingham.
Sunderland secured a memorable 2–1 victory over Sheffield United in the EFL Championship Playoff Final at Wembley Stadium, ending an eight-year absence from the top flight. After trailing in the first half, Eliezer Mayenda equalized in the 76th minute before Tom Watson sealed the promotion with a stoppage-time winner in the 95th minute.
Jobe Bellingham played the full match, cementing his status as one of the Black Cats’ most influential players. Operating primarily as a holding midfielder, Bellingham appeared in 43 matches this season, scoring four goals and providing three assists. However, his future at Sunderland is uncertain, as several top clubs are reportedly monitoring his progress.
Jobe could follow Jude to Borussia Dortmund
According to Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Borussia Dortmund are pushing for the signing of Jobe Bellingham from Sunderland. Jobe had drawn the interest of other Bundesliga sides like RB Leipzig and Eintracht Frankfurt, but Dortmund currently lead the race to sign the English youngster.
In 2020, Dortmund signed Jude Bellingham from then-third-tier Birmingham City for around $30 million. Jude went on to become one of the top midfielders in Europe, eventually earning a $120.9 million move to Real Madrid just three years later. Now, Dortmund appears eager to replicate that success with his younger brother.
Reports indicate that Dortmund head coach Niko Kovač and managing director Lars Ricken have traveled to England in an effort to accelerate the deal. The club is reportedly hoping to complete the transfer before the start of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, as Bellingham is considered a top midfield target.
Sunderland, however, may drive a hard bargain. Reports suggest the club will demand at least €25 million for their breakout star, but now promoted to the Premier League, and with a contract that runs through June 2028, Sunderland are in a strong position and are unlikely to let him leave without a significant offer.