This article is more than 6 months old

This article is more than 6 months old

The parents of Birmingham’s Jude Bellingham met Manchester United executives at the Premier League club’s training ground on Monday after the 16-year-old was granted permission to talk to interested clubs.

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Bellingham, who is Birmingham’s youngest ever player, is being targeted by numerous clubs, it is understood, so the midfielder’s future is unlikely to be settled immediately. United retain a firm interest in him but there is a recognition of the competition the club face to buy him. Borussia Dortmund, who in January beat United to the signing of Erling Braut Haaland, are also thought to be considering a move for Bellingham.

Yet Birmingham’s decision to allow Bellingham to consider prospective offers suggests the club would consider selling a player whose current deal expires in summer 2021.

Since making debut in August aged 16 and 38 days Bellingham has become a first-team regular, making 35 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals, gradually moving from a wide position to a central berth.

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Tahith Chong has signed a new contract that keeps him at United until 2022, with the club having an option of an extra year for the 20-year-old Dutch wide player.

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“His performances this season, whether for the first team or under-23s, are testament to his hard work, dedication and to his character. Tahith has great potential [and] given his age, ability and work-ethic we can see that he has a bright future at Manchester United,” said Ole Gunnar Solskjær.

Chong’s debut came in January of last season as second-half replacement in the 2-0 FA Cup win over Reading at Old Trafford and he has now made a total of 18 appearances for United.

Chong said: “When I joined Manchester United as a youngster [in 2016], it was a dream come true. It is an honour every time I pull on the shirt and represent this club. I am delighted to sign this new contract and really grateful for the chance to prove myself here for many years to come.”