Manchester United already have '$60m' confirmation of transfer bargain and can hit double jackpot

Manchester United's interest in Jude Bellingham is well-founded.

Erik ten Hag is so much of a fan that he confided in those close to him that if he could only sign one player this summer, it would be the England international. The problem is many of his contemporaries would likely reach the same conclusion.

Bellingham seems destined to move on at the end of the season and the 19-year-old will have his pick of Europe's elite. Real Madrid and Man City are the apparent frontrunners and while Liverpool have pulled out given the $161m price tag, reported by the Athletic, on the teenager's shoulders, United are among the suitors.

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Whether the Reds can close a deal remains to be seen, particularly when the top target this summer will be a new centre forward. While acquiring a striker and a central midfielder is not beyond United, the fees involved make it a tough ask.

Bellingham would provide everything United are looking for in the middle of the park with his ability to defend, link play and attack. His age and already apparent ability mean he'll be a mainstay of any team for a decade or more. But his price reflects that. A successful World Cup with England saw his stock rise further and from reports of a £100m valuation, now it's a £160m offer needed to prise away the former Birmingham City man.

It may prove one step too far for United should they spend big on a striker with Harry Kane at Tottenham the top target. Centre forwards rarely come cheap and it's at the top end of the pitch where United's need is greatest.

The midfield, while strengthened by the arrivals of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, still requires a little re-modeling. And if