Jobe Bellingham transfer to Dortmund hits snag

Negotiations over Jobe Bellingham’s move to Borussia Dortmund appear to have stalled.

After Jobe Bellingham gave his verbal commitment to join Borussia Dortmund from Sunderland earlier this week, negotiations between the two clubs have begun – but there’s a significant sticking point.

Bellingham’s contract with Sunderland includes a €40 million release clause, but reports have previously suggested the midfielder has a gentleman’s agreement with the newly-promoted Premier League side allowing him to leave for a total package of €30 million this summer.

According to Bild, Dortmund are prepared to pay €25 million upfront plus €5 million in bonuses to sign the 19-year-old. However, it now appears that Sunderland have no intention of negotiating below the release clause.

This has put the deal in jeopardy, and Bild reports that the transfer could collapse entirely if Sunderland remain firm in their demands.

The Black and Yellows are under pressure to complete the deal quickly, as they are keen for Bellingham to be part of their squad for the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off next week in the United States.

However, as things stand, a quick agreement appears increasingly unlikely.