Why Bellingham Turned Down Man United, According to Red Devils Legend

• English giants Manchester United wanted Jude Bellingham when he was 16
• The Premier League side showed the midfielder around Carrington as a teen
• Bellingham joined Borussia Dortmund instead before moving to Real Madrid

Rio Ferdinand has stated that Jude Bellingham rejected an opportunity to join Manchester United in 2020 due to a lack of assurance regarding consistent first-team playing time.

The Red Devils reportedly put forth substantial efforts in their attempt to secure the services of the current Real Madrid midfielder three years ago - when he was 16 years old.

The Premier League powerhouse invited Bellingham and his parents to visit the club's Carrington training facility in March, just before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

During that period, the 20-year-old was actively playing for Birmingham City and garnering significant interest from various clubs, as Manchester Evening News has reported.

Jude Bellingham makes Real Madrid history with double against Barcelona

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However, Bellingham - now widely regarded as the best player in the world in terms of current form - opted to sign with Bundesliga side, Borussia Dortmund in July that year.

Why Bellingham snubbed Manchester United

The Englishman was said to be of the opinion that the German team would offer him the perfect platform for his career development.

Ferdinand has asserted that Bellingham rejected a transfer to Old Trafford due to the lack of guarantee of regular first-team opportunities.

"Do you know what I heard it was… [Bellingham] wanted some assurances about being a first-team player," Ferdinand said on the Vibe with Five podcast. "And United weren't willing to give him those assurances, that's what I heard from a very good source."

How Bellingham has fared this season

Bellingham's performance since his transfer to Spain has been remarkable. He has netted 13 goals in as many as 13 matches across all competitions, in addition to providing three assists, GOAL reported.

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The next opportunity to witness the English sensation in action will come when Real Madrid takes on Rayo Vallecano in La Liga this weekend, followed by a return to the UEFA Champions League against Braga.

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Bellingham backed to reach Messi levels

Sports Brief also reported on Arrigo Sacchi stating Bellingham could emulate Lionel Messi's success, expressing excitement at the abilities of the Englishman.

The former Italy manager praised the midfielder as 'a world-class talent' and said he possesses the attributes to reach the same heights as the Argentine star.