Liverpool's transfer chiefs have been criticised for their failed campaign after various multi-million pound signings this summer - but they may not stop there, with a move for one of the world's brightest stars reportedly in the offing.
The Reds currently sit fourth in the Premier League table, which is by no means poor at this stage of the campaign for most sides. However, as the reigning champions, they are already 14 points behind leaders Arsenal, having spent over £400million including add-ons this summer alone.
But despite their shortcomings under Arne Slot this season, the Reds won't stop their spending there, with reports suggesting a move for Jude Bellingham is in the offing.
Liverpool Lining Up £156m Move for Real Madrid Hero Jude Bellingham
real madrid jude bellingham
The report by Spanish outlet Fichajes states that Liverpool will aim to shake up the transfer market once again with a huge move, after the major signings of Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak in the summer transfer window - with the Reds 'prepared' to submit a €180million (£156million) offer to Real Madrid for Bellingham.
Although the Englishman, described as 'the best player in the world', is one of Madrid's key players, and a crucial part of their medium and long-term plans, Anfield chiefs believe that they need a 'generational leader' to dominate their midfield for the next decade. That is where Bellingham comes in, with the 22-year-old already having close to 300 club appearances in professional football, as well as 46 caps for England.
Combining talent with 'personality' and that experience, Liverpool would be willing to smash the British transfer record, which they paid for Isak from Newcastle United in the summer.
However, it's thought that Real are not considering a departure, with the club's stance being firm, based on both sporting and strategic criteria.
Bellingham Would be a Sensational Pickup For Liverpool in Their Quest for Dominance
Jude Bellingham celebrating after scoring for Real Madrid against Barcelona
Liverpool's hierarchy believe that a 'definitive' leap forward as a club would come from their midfield ranks, with Bellingham falling into that category.
There is a determination on Liverpool's part to get a deal done, hence the £156million interest, which is in place to make them the market leaders.
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The Reds have spent big in recent months, though their big-money signings such as Isak and Wirtz haven't garnered many returns just yet. Isak only has three goals in 16 games and has recently been ruled out with a broken leg, whilst Wirtz - although he has picked up form lately - has registered just four goal involvements in 20 Premier League games.
Naturally, there may be a hesitance among Liverpool's fanbase to such a big-money signing, as there has been failure this season, though Bellingham would be sensational, owing to his experience in the game already.