Erik ten Hag was forced to perform a U-turn in Manchester United's pursuit of Jude Bellingham after the Real Madrid star played down rumours of an Old Trafford move as "silly".
It’s difficult to picture Bellingham playing anywhere but Real Madrid after his ground-breaking debut season in Spain. Having made the move from Borussia Dortmund last summer, the 21-year-old is already an iconic figure at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Bellingham's impressive tally of 23 goals across all competitions was instrumental in driving Real Madrid to both the league title and European glory, establishing himself as one of football's preeminent stars.
Yet, only a year ago, his future was the subject of speculation, with clubs from around Europe circling Dortmund's Westfalenstadion in the hope they could get their clutches on England’s biggest star. READ MORE: Three transfers Manchester United could complete this week as Erik ten Hag faces new challenge READ MORE: 'He's earned it' - Erik ten Hag praises hidden gem in Manchester United pre-season squad Manchester United were among those fighting for his signature, with Ten Hag desperate to fill the void left by Paul Pogba's departure the previous year.