Jobe Bellingham ready to retrace brother Jude's path to Dortmund

Jobe Bellingham may be ready to write a similar story to that of his brother — or perhaps he's simply heeding Jude's advice, believing that a move to Dortmund could be the ideal springboard for a career at the top level. Either way, the younger Bellingham is now said to be edging closer to a switch to Signal Iduna Park.

The German outlet claims Jobe has already turned down offers from the likes of Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig, choosing instead to follow in the footsteps of the Real Madrid star at the same club where Jude made his name.

Both brothers came through the youth ranks at Birmingham City, leaving a lasting impression. Jude joined Dortmund in 2020 at the age of 17. Around the same time, Jobe was making his first-team debut for the Blues, but opted to take a more gradual step, moving to Sunderland in the summer. Jude signed for Madrid.

His time at Sunderland has been impressive. In just two seasons with the Black Cats, Jobe played a key role in helping the club secure promotion to the Premier League, contributing 11 goals and four assists in 90 Championship appearances. But like his brother, he may depart before ever featuring in England’s top flight.

The Guardian reports that Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl met with Jobe last week in Ibiza to discuss the transfer. German media also mention ongoing talks involving head coach Niko Kovac, sporting CEO Lars Ricken, and club chairman Hans-Joachim Watzke.

The next step for Dortmund is to convince Sunderland to part with their rising star — a player they would have loved to keep for their return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence.

The German side are hoping to seal a deal in the region of €25 million, though the final fee could rise. Regardless, Bellingham is said to be fully convinced that a move to Germany is the best path for his future.