How Borussia Dortmund beat Premier League rivals to Jobe Bellingham deal as transfer fee revealed

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Borussia Dortmund have agreed a deal to sign Sunderland youngster Jobe Bellingham, and EFL Analysis can exclusively reveal why he snubbed Premier League interest in favour of a move to Germany.

As Sunderland were promoted to the Premier League after beating Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final, midfielder Jobe Bellingham picked up interest from several clubs.

Following the win at Wembley, Bellingham flew out to Germany for transfer talks with Eintracht Frankfurt, and it appeared the German giants were in pole position for his signature.

However, Bellingham didn’t want to join Frankfurt, with it quickly becoming apparent that the 19-year-old wanted to follow in the footsteps of his brother, Jude, who joined Borussia Dortmund in 2020.

Now, we can share exactly why he snubbed interest from several Premier League clubs and the price Dortmund are expected to pay for his signature.

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Why Jobe Bellingham snubbed the Premier League for Borussia Dortmund

As per information from our Chief Football Correspondent, Graeme Bailey, EFL Analysis can reveal that Bellingham has agreed personal terms with Dortmund and a move is expected to be finalised this week.

Dortmund were always confident of landing Bellingham, despite Premier League clubs wanting him. The likes of Arsenal, Manchester United, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace all showed a strong interest in the teenager, but he’s chosen to move to Germany.

Mike Dodds and Daniel Dodds have played a ‘positive’ role in Bellingham’s transfer, and we understand that Sunderland are set to accept a deal worth around £25 million, although add-ons could yet take the deal in excess of £30 million.

Explaining why Bellingham ultimately wanted a move to Dortmund, Bailey said: “People talk about why Jobe is heading to Germany following in Jude’s footsteps but I am told that the Bellingham camp have no issues at all with that  – indeed, is the dream to see Jobe playing alongside Jude at Real Madrid? Why not?

“That would mean both of their sons are at the top of the footballing world. They want them to play together for England, but they think they could do it at club level too – they are different to play together.”

Bellingham’s Sunderland stats

Bellingham was progressing well under Regis Le Bris, but now, he will have eyes across Europe watching his performances and expecting him to deliver.

Champions League football could have swayed Bellingham’s decision, seeing it as an opportunity to test himself against the elite and accelerate his development.

The 2005-born star will leave the Stadium of Light this summer with 11 goals and four assists in 90 appearances for the club.

Indeed, those are numbers he must improve on in Germany to become an instant hit at Dortmund.