Transfers

What Arsenal think about Jobe Bellingham transfer as Sunderland star closes in on new club

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Arsenal are set to keep a close eye on the progression of Jobe Bellingham, despite the fact that he will snub a move to the Gunners this summer, Arsenal Insider understands.

The Gunners have been linked with plenty of midfield options over the past few months, with some promising stars eyed for roles at the club.

With uncertainty surrounding Thomas Partey’s contract situation, along with the impending signing of Martin Zubimendi, there is change coming in the central ranks.

Arsenal have looked at young options in the past, with Sverre Nypan among those who have been of interest.

Then there’s Jobe Bellingham, who has enjoyed an impressive year in the Championship, earning promotion to the Premier League.

However, despite helping Sunderland on their rise, the 19-year-old is now set for a new move this summer.

Jobe Bellingham celebrates with Sunderland against Sheffield United
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Arsenal set to monitor Jobe Bellingham after transfer snub

Arsenal have been linked with a transfer for Jobe Bellingham for some time now, with the Sunderland star impressing in the Championship.

The midfielder helped push the Black Cats back into the Premier League, winning the play-offs with them in victories over Coventry and Sheffield United.

Those displays are set to be his last for Sunderland, as a move away seems almost certain for the coming transfer window.

While Arsenal were hoping that a deal could be struck, Arsenal Insider understands that the Gunners, and a host of other English clubs, are set to be snubbed.

Instead, Borussia Dortmund appear to be the priority, while Eintracht Frankfurt sit in the wings, hopeful of sealing a deal themselves.

Despite seemingly missing out, Arsenal are set to continue monitoring Bellingham as a future prospect for the club.

Transfer expert Graeme Bailey revealed more on the situation as he told Arsenal Insider: “Arsenal had a long-standing interest in Jobe Bellingham – they were aware of the situation.

“But they knew that there was almost a plan in place for him. They were hugely impressed by his progress this season, and indeed I am told they did see a pathway for him at the club – but as it stands, that would not have been regular first-team action at this point, so a move was never likely.

“They will continue to watch his development in Germany with increasing interest.”

Jobe Bellingham celebrates with Sunderland against Sheffield United
Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images

How good is Jobe Bellingham?

At 19 years old, Jobe Bellingham is still gaining experience and looking to cement his place in top-level senior football.

With over 100 appearances under his belt so far, the midfielder is looking to impress and make his mark with the next step.

While a move to a top Premier League team may have been tough, especially if he wanted to start regularly, a switch abroad could help him progress.

Jobe could be following a similar pathway to his brother, Jude Bellingham, who managed to move from Birmingham to Borussia Dortmund himself, before another switch to Real Madrid.

There are natural comparisons between the two, with a relatively similar box-to-box style about the pair in midfield.

However, Jobe Bellingham is still progressing and will need to take those extra steps before he’s ready for the highest level.

For that reason, Arsenal will be keeping a keen eye to see if he can be one for the future still.