Liverpool are the 'favourites' to sign Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham and could look to strike a deal which will see him move to Anfield next summer, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.

The Reds shattered their club-record transfer fee when they parted with £85million to sign Darwin Nunez from Benfica during the summer, but it appears they are willing to spend big once again in a matter of months.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What's the latest news involving Bellingham?

It is understood that Dortmund were unwilling to sanction Bellingham's departure during the recently closed transfer window despite extensive interest from a number of clubs, including Liverpool.

However, the Reds have refused to rest on their laurels and are reportedly making strong progress in their attempts to get a deal in place ahead of a switch to Merseyside at the end of the season.

Bellingham is valued at close to £132million by his current employers and parting with that sum would result in him comfortably becoming the most expensive British footballer in history.

But it has emerged that Liverpool could secure the central midfielder's services for considerably less than that figure - £83million - if they are in a position to pay the entire fee up front next summer.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is facing competition for Bellingham's signature as Premier League rivals Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United have also joined the race.

What has Dharmesh Sheth said about Bellingham?

Sheth believes Bellingham will be in-demand at the end of the campaign, with various clubs keen to acquire his services.

But the Sky Sports reporter feels Liverpool are at the front of the queue after holding a long-term interest in the 19-year-old.

Sheth told GIVEMESPORT: "Next summer, I think the topic of Jude Bellingham is going to be very, very hot.

"It seems that Liverpool are the favourites to sign him. It has been talked about for the last year or so."

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Why are Liverpool looking to sign a central midfielder?

Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner's respective contracts are set to expire next summer, meaning Klopp could see three of his current options in the heart of the midfield depart unless fresh terms are agreed.

It is understood that Keita is unhappy with his current situation at Anfield as talks over an extension broke down.

Arthur Melo's loan agreement will also lapse at the end of the campaign, so he will leave Merseyside unless Liverpool take advantage of the £32million purchase option written into the deal which was struck with Juventus on transfer deadline day earlier this month.