Jude Bellingham may still opt against leaving Borussia Dortmund this summer, according to The Athletic journalist David Ornstein.

It was confirmed earlier this week that Liverpool had withdrawn from the race to sign the England international but Ornstein has suggested that the midfielder may not move teams at all:

“So, it feels like there’s a good chance he might stay for an extra year. He’s just 19 years old, there’s two years more on his contract and they might try and renew him; put a release clause in – there’s no release clause at the moment. So, it’s just unpredictable.”

Ornstein’s remarks do offer Liverpool fans some hope that not all is lost. If Bellingham does decide to remain at Dortmund, it would mean that the Reds could re-enter the battle for his signature next year. That could still be wishful thinking though.

Real Madrid and Manchester City are said to be very keen to get a deal done in the coming months, while the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United could also get involved.

A lot will depend on how much Dortmund are demanding for Bellingham. If they do hold firm on their reported €150m (£132m) valuation, it could put off potential bidders.

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