Liverpool rivals laying down Jude Bellingham 'smokescreen' after source's update - pundit
Paul Robinson has claimed Carlo Ancelotti’s comments about Liverpool target Jude Bellingham are “a smokescreen.”
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England number one is adamant Real Madrid will be at the front of the queue to sign the Borussia Dortmund 18-year-old.
A number of top European clubs are in the race to sign Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund.
Sources told Football Insider on 31 December that Bellingham's father, Mark, would prefer his son to move to Anfield.
As quoted by Marca (6 January), Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti distanced his side from a move for the England international.
Ancelotti said while Bellingham is a great player he is happy and will stick with his current options.
When asked by Football Insider for his thoughts on the Real Madrid’s boss’ comments, Robinson said: “It is a smokescreen.
“Any manager in the world would take Jude Bellingham.
“If Ancelotti comes out and says he wants Jude Bellingham it might add another £20million to the price tag. That is why he has played down talk of Real Madrid going in for him.
“Look, it is well known that Real Madrid, Liverpool and Man City all want to sign Bellingham. A lot will come down to who is prepared to pay what but I have no doubt Real Madrid will be right in the mix come the summer.
“Bellingham is the best young centre-midfielder in the world right now. Every top club would want to have him including Real Madrid.”