Tottenham Hotspur 'express interest in £20m-rated Championship teenager'

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham.

The 18-year-old is already being linked with a move away from the Stadium of Light despite only joining Sunderland from Birmingham City last year.

Bellingham, who is the younger brother of Real Madrid and England star Jude Bellingham, was a regular fixture in the Sunderland side last season, contributing seven goals and one assist in 45 Championship appearances.

His performances ultimately led to him being called up to England men's Elite League (Under-20) squad for two friendlies against Sweden and Republic of Ireland.

While Bellingham is currently preparing for those two matches, his future continues to draw significant speculation ahead of the summer transfer window.

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Tottenham join Bellingham race

A recent report claimed that Crystal Palace had already opened discussions over a potential transfer for the Sunderland teenager.

According to journalist Ed Aarons, Tottenham are also showing an interest in securing Bellingham's signature this summer.

The update claims that Palace and Spurs are being rivalled by fellow London club Brentford, leaving Sunderland with a fight on their hands to retain Bellingham's services.

Championship side Sunderland are determined to keep hold of the youngster, who is understood to have three years left to run on his contract.

However, there is a belief that Sunderland will consider sanctioning a sale if they receive offers in excess of £20m.

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Where would Bellingham play for Spurs?

Bellingham has already shown in his fledgling career that he can play as an attacking midfielder, a number eight and even as a centre-forward.

If Spurs sign him to play the number 10 role, he will have a fight on his hands to displace England international James Maddison.

However, with Tottenham involved in European competition next season, there should be enough games for Bellingham to get regular opportunities.

There is also the possibility that Bellingham could be utilised as a traditional central midfielder, especially with uncertainty surrounding the futures of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Oliver Skipp.

Even if Hojbjerg and Skipp leave the club, Bellingham would still need to find a way past the likes of Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Sarr and Yves Bissouma.