Jobe Bellingham ‘ready to make perfect’ RB Leipzig move’ after Sunderland latest
RB Leipzig would be the “perfect” move for Jobe Bellingham if he is to leave Sunderland this summer, according to the club’s former chief scout.
Mick Brown, who also worked as the chief scout at Man United and Blackburn and remains very well-connected at his former clubs, exclusively told Football Insider that staying at the Stadium of Light would be the best option for the 19-year-old.
However, following in the footsteps of his brother by moving to the Bundesliga would allow him to further his career away from the spotlight of English football.
There are concerns about whether he is prepared to make the jump straight to a top Premier League outfit, whereas Leipzig could be a stepping stone for him.
Brown told Football Insider on 13 March that Chelsea scouts have been watching Bellingham, with Man United, Tottenham and Crystal Palace also in the running.
Jobe Bellingham told to turn down Man United and make RB Leipzig switch
Football Insider exclusively revealed in February that Sunderland will accept “huge” offers for Bellingham if they fail to earn promotion to the Premier League.
Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted that he should follow in the footsteps of his brother with a move to Germany.
“His best move would be for him to stay at Sunderland,” he told Football Insider.
“But given the fact that looks unlikely at this stage, a move to Leipzig would be perfect for him.
“The teams like Man United, Chelsea, Tottenham – I don’t know where he fits in to any of those sides.
“I don’t think he’s good enough to be a regular at those types of clubs yet, but a move to play German football and develop his game could set him up for it.
“It takes him away from the spotlight and the pressure you get in the Premier League.
“And it worked for Jude, he went to Dortmund and developed his game instead of making the jump to a Man United or a Liverpool.
“If he has to leave Sunderland, that’s the one I think would suit him best.”
Chris Rigg transfer saga emerges at Sunderland
Alongside the potential departure of Bellingham, Sunderland are also preparing for interest in Chris Rigg after his impressive season so far.
Brown told Football Insider that Sunderland may be forced to accept offers for Rigg amid interest from Man United, Chelsea, Tottenham and Crystal Palace.
As a result, there is expected to be a battle to lure him away from the North East if Sunderland cannot offer Premier League football next season.
Now, Football Insider revealed on 30 March that West Ham and Everton are leading Tottenham in the race to sign the 17-year-old this summer.
For more Sunderland and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.