Man Utd launch £25m transfer bid for Jude Bellingham, 16, as Solskjaer makes move for Birmingham starlet

Man Utd have reportedly launched a £25m transfer bid for Birmingham starlet Jude Bellingham Credit: Rex Features

MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly launched a £25million transfer bid for 16-year-old Birmingham starlet Jude Bellingham.

Bellingham has exploded onto the scene in the Championship this season making 23 appearances in all competitions.

His performances and ability to play centrally and out wide in midfield as well as up front has led to several scouts watching Bellingham play this season.

But it is understood United No2 Mike Phelan looks to have stolen a march and according to Duncan Castles, Old Trafford bosses have bid £25m for the rising teen.

Bellingham made his Brum debut aged just 16 years and 38 days old.

Only a few weeks later he became the club's youngest ever scorer when he netted a deflected effort against Stoke in a 2-1 win.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has put an emphasis on signing youthful homegrown talent, bringing in Harry Maguire, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Dan James this summer.

It is claimed Solskjaer is also interested in Leicester’s James Maddison and Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish.

But the Old Trafford boss was told both the English playmakers will not be sold this month, and Bellingham acts as a cheaper alternative.

United are still pushing for a deal to sign Sporting Lisbon captain Bruno Fernandes.

But the transfer is “at risk” as Sporting want the full £55m fee paid while Old Trafford chiefs are only willing to pay £42m.