The 2025 summer transfer window saw Manchester United miss out on signing a second Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund.
While less of a blow than when Jude Bellingham rejected Manchester United in 2020, it was still a disappointing outcome to the interest.
Jobe Bellingham is not his brother, but he still has the potential to be a very talented midfielder, which is why Ineos were keeping an eye on his Championship appearances last season.
Bellingham had ‘off-the-charts’ approval from scouts, with his physical qualities standing out to analysts.
However, despite Ineos’ interest, United missed out on Bellingham as he followed his brother’s footsteps to Borussia Dortmund, although things haven’t gone that smoothly.
Manchester United verdict on signing Jobe Bellingham
Bellingham had a dream start at Dortmund, scoring in the Club World Cup; however, in the Bundesliga, he hasn’t had the immediate success that he would have wanted, with just 186 minutes played.
As a result, there have been murmurings over his unhappiness at Dortmund. The Daily Mail revealed that Bellingham’s father has been banned from the club dressing room after he confronted head coach Niko Kovac after he substituted the then 19-year-old at half-time.
Some reports have therefore claimed Bellingham wants out, but United in Focus understands, via Graeme Bailey, that is not the case, despite the Red Devils staying aware of his situation.
“There has been talk about Jobe Bellingham being targeted for a return to England, but I am told that is not a thing”, Bailey explains.
“Bellingham has only just moved, he is playing, albeit not every game, but he is only 20 – he has not played top-flight football before.
“So, from clubs looking at Bellingham like United – yes, they are still aware, but from what I am told, he is not on the radar of anyone for January, he has literally just gone and is tasting Champions League football.
“Nothing doing with him at this point.”
This is no shock, as the season has only just begun; however, if he is still struggling for minutes later this campaign, perhaps it is one to keep an eye on again with Bellingham still on the radar.
How has Jobe Bellingham been playing for Borussia Dortmund?
Last season saw Bellingham starring for Sunderland in their promotion season to the Premier League, before he then made the move in the summer.
Bellingham has made nine appearances in all competitions for Dortmund, with only a handful of starts as his manager is yet to be won over.
Put simply, Bellingham has been pretty poor all season for Dortmund, offering less than his teammates, which means his demands for more minutes have fallen on deaf ears.
Bellingham needs to improve, or the decision to leave will be welcomed by Dortmund. However, it was a massive step up from the Championship and he should find his feet.
But if not, perhaps United will be waiting to give him another chance.
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