“Sunderland Forced to Sell Star Teen for £9M Less Than Expected – Fans Won’t Believe Who
Sunderland Set to Lose “Excellent” Talent in Cut-Price Deal After Major Transfer Update
As Sunderland prepare for their return to the Premier League, a major focus has been on reinforcing the squad—yet keeping hold of rising star Jobe Bellingham has also been high on the club’s agenda.
The 19-year-old midfielder has been considering his future in recent weeks, with Sunderland hopeful he would stay on after their dramatic playoff triumphs over Coventry and Sheffield United under new manager Régis Le Bris.
However, it has always seemed more likely that Bellingham would follow in his brother Jude’s footsteps, and now a move to Borussia Dortmund looks all but confirmed.
Bellingham to Join Dortmund in Lower-than-Expected Deal
Despite earlier reports from Fabrizio Romano stating that Sunderland would not entertain offers below Bellingham’s £34 million release clause, a fresh update suggests they will receive far less.
According to Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, Bellingham has decided to join Dortmund for around £25 million—almost £10 million below the club’s original valuation.
It’s a disappointing financial outcome for Sunderland, especially given Bellingham’s immense potential, but not an entirely unexpected one.
With the influence and guidance of his older brother Jude, it’s clear that Dortmund’s proven track record of developing young talent was a major pull.
A Memorable Farewell for a Rising Star
Bellingham played a crucial role in Sunderland’s successful push for promotion, and he leaves behind fond memories at the Stadium of Light.
He was described as “excellent” by respected scout Jacek Kulig, and fans will no doubt remember him as a key figure in the club’s resurgence.
Though his departure will sting, it was always somewhat inevitable.
Supporters are unlikely to hold any grudge, instead wishing him the best as he begins the next chapter of his career in Germany.
For Sunderland, the task now is to move forward without him and ensure his absence doesn’t derail their Premier League return.
