Jude Bellingham has admitted he was not close to moving to Liverpool despite links to the Premier League side during the 2023 summer transfer window.
The Real Madrid star made the switch from Borussia Dortmund to Los Blancos in July 2023, joining the Spanish giants ahead of their La Liga and Champions League winning campaign. After an immense stint in the Bundesliga, Bellingham received interest from a number of top European sides, including Liverpool.
However, the England international has made it clear his sights were always set on Madrid.
"It [a move to Liverpool] wasn't as close as they said," he told reporters ahead of Madrid's Champions League clash with the Reds. "There were talks. Dortmund was there and I did it with several clubs. When Madrid calls you, there are vibes in the whole house. It's not that the others weren't good, it's that Madrid is on another level.
"They are first in the Premier League and the Champions League, they are a good team. They have reached an extra level...[Wednesday] will be a very good test."
When asked if he wanted to join forces with England teammate and close friend Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is said to be the subject of a lunch meeting between Liverpool and Madrid on Wednesday, Bellingham continued: "I'll be by his side with the national team, so that's guaranteed. He's a Liverpool player and talking about the future is disrespectful.
"The important thing is to take the pressure off him. He's a great friend and I wish him all the best. Except tomorrow [Wednesday]."
Madrid will hope to impress when they travel to face Liverpool at Anfield midweek. The Reds sit just behind Barcelona and Inter in the Champions League's new-look format with a game in hand, whereas Madrid are further down the pecking order in 21st.
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