Dortmund delegation visits Sunderland in pursuit of Jobe Bellingham

Dortmund manager Niko Kovac, managing director Lars Ricken and sporting director Sebastian Kehl travelled by private jet to Newcastle, returning the same evening after meeting with representatives of the player.

The German giants are reportedly prepared to pay around 21.2 million pounds for the 18-year-old, who has emerged as one of the Championship's standout young talents.

The timing of the visit has raised eyebrows, as Sunderland are in the midst of their Championship play-off campaign. Having finished fourth in the table, the Black Cats face Coventry City in the first leg of their semi-final on Friday night.

However, Dortmund are said to be keen to conclude a deal regardless of Sunderland’s promotion hopes.

Jobe Bellingham is the younger brother of Jude Bellingham, who spent three successful seasons at Dortmund after joining from Birmingham City in 2020. The club has maintained a close relationship with the Bellingham family, which could prove crucial in negotiations.

While Dortmund are leading the chase, Premier League sides Manchester United and Crystal Palace are also monitoring the situation closely.

The Bundesliga club are hopeful of securing Jobe's signature ahead of the new season, looking to repeat the success they enjoyed with his older sibling.