Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham was the subject of enquiries from both Liverpool and Chelsea this summer, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano (via CaughtOffside.com).

The Italian journalist claims the approaches were rebuffed, with Dortmund unwilling to sanction the sale of another key first-team player so quickly after losing Erling Haaland to Manchester City.

Bellingham is known to be a top target for the Reds but, up until recently, it was believed that Real Madrid would be the Merseyside club’s main rivals for the teenager’s signature.

Unfortunately, it appears Chelsea will also be competing to sign the player as and when he becomes available. Dortmund are more likely to sell the midfielder next year but they are expected to hold out for a sizeable fee.

Previous reports have suggested a bid in the region of €120m (£102.5m) could be needed to prise Bellingham away from the Bundesliga club, so Liverpool will need to break their transfer record to get him.