Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has hailed Jude Bellingham's recent development, claiming that the Borussia Dortmund midfielder has "everything" that is required to be a top player.
Both Shaw and Bellingham are currently with the Three Lions squad preparing for the 2022 World Cup, which officially starts on Sunday, with hosts Qatar taking on Ecuador.
Gareth Southgate's side will begin their tournament against Iran on Monday, before also facing the United States and Wales in the group stage of the competition.
Bellingham is currently focusing on international matters, but there remains widespread speculation surrounding his future at club level.
Man United are believed to be one of a number of leading European clubs keen to sign the 19-year-old during next summer's transfer window.
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Shaw has lavished praise on the former Birmingham City youngster, with the Man United left-back expecting his international teammate to become one of the top players in the world in the coming years.
"The one I've been most surprised about when he first got involved is Jude," Shaw told England's Lions' Den programme. "He can do everything in that middle. He can drive with the ball, he can pass, he's aggressive.
"He's got everything. When I first saw him when he was first involved in the England squad, even then I thought, 'Wow, this guy is going to be so good, and he already looks like a man'.
"Over the past couple of years, being here in the squad with him, he's always had the talent, but he's starting to develop and gain experience.
"He's becoming more a man, when you look at him and his strength. He's captaining his club and I think it's showing, the steps that he's taking are leading him in the right direction."
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Bellingham has been in impressive form for Dortmund during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring nine goals and registering three assists in 22 appearances in all competitions.
In total, he has represented BVB on 112 occasions this term, scoring 19 goals and contributing 21 assists.
Bellingham, who is expected to start England's World Cup opener against Iran, has also captained his German club in the league and Champions League this term.
Real Madrid, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea are also said to be among the clubs interested in the midfielder, who is likely to cost in excess of £100m.
Dortmund are seemingly bracing themselves for a transfer saga, and the Bundesliga side are in a strong position when it comes to any potential negotiations, as the midfielder has a contract at Signal Iduna Park until June 2025.
Matt Law
