Jobe Bellingham has snubbed the opportunity to move to the Premier League in order to sign a contract extension at Sunderland.
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Bellingham wanted by Premier League teamsSunderland rejected offers for midfielderTeenager signed Black Cats contract extensionWHAT HAPPENED?
Crystal Palace and Brentford were among the teams reported to be interested in signing the midfielder from Sunderland, though the Championship side turned down approaches as they set a £20 million ($26m) asking price for him.
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Now, the 18-year-old brother of Real Madrid star Jude has put an end to speculation surrounding his future as he has signed a new contract that ties him to the Black Cats until 2028, and the England Under-20 international issued a message to fans as the news was announced.
WHAT BELLINGHAM SAID
"I’m buzzing to sign this contract and extend my stay at Sunderland," he told the club's website. "I feel like I have a lot of unfinished business and I believe we can achieve some great things this season. This is such an amazing city and I’m so proud to represent the people within it. Everyone has made me feel right at home and I couldn’t imagine playing for a Club where it didn’t mean as much as it does to our fans. I enjoy playing for Sunderland and I can’t wait to get back to the Stadium of Light this weekend."
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR BELLINGHAM?
Bellingham grabbed an assist as Sunderland started the new Championship season with a 2-0 win at Cardiff City last week. He will hope to build on that positive start when they take on Sheffield Wednesday in their next game on Sunday – and there will no doubt be plenty of eyes from Premier League teams focused on the rising star as he takes to the field.