Sunderland are prepared to accept a significant offer for Jobe Bellingham this summer amid increasing interest, sources have informed Football Insider.
Should Regis Le Bris’ squad fail to secure promotion to the Premier League, well-placed insiders suggest they may have no choice but to cash in on Bellingham if a substantial bid comes in.
Several Premier League clubs have been closely monitoring the midfielder’s progress at the Stadium of Light this season. Crystal Palace and Tottenham, in particular, have regularly sent scouts to observe his performances and are making preparations for a summer bid.
Meanwhile, Football Insider exclusively reported in November that Borussia Dortmund are becoming increasingly confident about signing Bellingham after keeping a close watch on his development.
Although Sunderland initially aimed to retain all of their young talents—including Manchester United-linked Chris Rigg—their ability to do so may hinge on securing Premier League promotion.
Currently, Le Bris’ team sits fourth in the Championship, trailing second-placed Sheffield United by five points in the race for automatic promotion but holding a comfortable 15-point lead over seventh-placed Middlesbrough.
Dortmund Competing with Premier League Clubs for Bellingham
Back in May, Football Insider revealed that Sunderland were prepared to demand up to £12 million for Bellingham due to financial pressures. However, his valuation has likely risen further following an impressive season and the growing interest in his services.
A bidding war among multiple Premier League clubs would be the ideal scenario for Sunderland, as the competition to secure the young midfielder intensifies.
So far this season, Bellingham has featured in 27 of Sunderland’s 31 Championship fixtures and recently reached a milestone, making his 100th professional appearance in a 3-2 victory over Middlesbrough. Former Sunderland and England star Jordan Henderson was among those who congratulated him on the achievement.
Tommy Watson’s Future Remains Uncertain
Another rising star in Sunderland’s ranks, 18-year-old Tommy Watson, has also attracted Premier League interest after making 10 Championship appearances in his breakthrough campaign.
Watson was on the verge of joining Brighton on transfer deadline day (February 3), having completed a medical with the Seagulls. However, despite Sunderland accepting a late bid, the move fell through due to time constraints.
As a result, Watson will remain at the Stadium of Light for the remainder of the season, but fresh offers from Premier League clubs are expected in the summer.
