BREAKING NEWS;Jobe Bellingham on His Future Amid Transfer Interest

### Jobe Bellingham on His Future Amid Transfer Interest

Sunderland star Jobe Bellingham has addressed his plans for next season amid transfer interest from top European clubs, hinting that he might stay with the club beyond the summer.

**Transfer Links:**
Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund has been linked with the Sunderland midfielder, with Tottenham and Newcastle United also showing interest. The 18-year-old made 45 Championship appearances in his first season at Sunderland, after joining from Birmingham last summer, scoring seven goals for the Black Cats.

**Contract Details:**
Bellingham’s Sunderland contract details were not disclosed when he signed last summer, but it was announced as a ‘long-term’ deal. During the 2023-24 season, he played predominantly in midfield but also had success in more advanced roles, such as a number nine or off the frontman.

**Interview Highlights:**
Following the season’s end, Bellingham sat down with Sunderland’s in-house media for an interview discussing his plans for next season, reflections on his first campaign, and more.

**Reflections on the 2023-24 Season:**
JB: “It’s been a big learning experience. There have been a lot of ups and downs, as there are in any season. For my first season, there’s been so much that will stand me in good stead for future seasons.

“I’ve had the privilege of playing for a huge club in front of huge fans, which brings different pressures. You have to adapt and learn. I feel like I’ve learned a lot and grown as a player and person.

“People told me what to expect, but you never really understand until you come here. I was wide-eyed and thought, wow, this is amazing. The supporters, the players, and the ambition were all impressive.

“It definitely lived up to my expectations. By the end of the season, I felt more a part of the club and more driven to put things right.”

**Next Season’s Plans and Improvement:**

JB: “Yeah, I’d say put right and try to improve. There have been tough things to take, but I wouldn’t change anything because you learn from it. There have been more highs than lows, personally and growth-wise.

“When you always want to hit the next milestone and keep improving, it can make you impatient. It’s important to look back and be proud of yourself. But I don’t want to stand still; I want to keep improving.”

**Settling in the North East:**
JB: “I encourage everyone to play football here. The North East is great in terms of people and their generosity. I’ve had only positive encounters with people on the streets, who are always polite and kind.

“The fans have been supportive and generous, and I’ve tried to embrace the club and the area as much as I can. It’s helped me settle in. Although I’ve spent my whole life in the same area and club, I feel like I’ve been here longer than a year.

“I’ve not really thought about anything to do next season yet, but I’m really pleased with how things have gone.”

**Kit Release Tease:**
JB: “Obviously, I’ve seen the kits, which is probably the most exciting thing right now because they look amazing. But no, I haven’t set any goals yet. I’ll do that in the summer when we return for pre-season. I think it’s best to focus on what’s in front of you.”

Goals for next season at Sunderland