Steve McManaman has warned Jobe Bellingham that the Stadium of Light is the best place for his development amid speculation over his Sunderland future.
The 18-year-old joined the Black Cats from Championship rivals Birmingham City in a reputed £3 million transfer last summer.
The midfielder has impressed many with his performances, seemingly unaffected by his high price tag.
The teenager has been a steady part in Sunderland’s lineup, recording four goals and one assist in 21 league appearances.
This has sparked curiosity about his future, with Liverpool, Chelsea, and Real Madrid all connected with a bid for the kid.
“You have to be exceptional,” says McManaman.
McManaman has applauded Bellingham’s work thus far in his career and believes the player will continue to progress under new Sunderland manager Michael Beale.
However, he believes that it is still too early for the 18-year-old to consider leaving the Stadium of Light.
“Jobe’s doing fine,” McManaman stated via Betfred.
“He’s at Sunderland, and he’ll continue to improve there, particularly under Michael Beale.” Michael will teach Jobe the correct procedures.
“I don’t think Liverpool will be interested in him just yet because they don’t need to be.”
“Teams that can afford these players, such as Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Arsenal, don’t need to sign them while they’re still so young.”
“You have to be exceptional to make a move to a top club at the age of 18, and Jobe is doing alright right now, but he’s probably in the best place for his development.”
“The most important thing for him right now is to play 90 minutes almost every single week, if he can, and if he moves to one of the big clubs, he won’t have that opportunity, so I don’t see the point of him moving until he’s more of a finished product.”
“The big teams also don’t have to take a chance on the younger players at the minute because their academies are stacked with talented players.”
Sunderland league position
Sunderland are currently seventh in the Championship table, three points adrift of the play-off places as we approach the halfway stage of the season.
Beale is set to take charge of his first game as head coach of the Black Cats this weekend when the Wearside outfit hosts Coventry City on 23 December.
Too soon for Bellingham to consider Sunderland departure
Bellingham is a tremendous talent, but it is way too early for him to be considering a move to such a large team.
Even his older brother Jude had to wait a few years before joining a club like Real Madrid.
Sunderland is an excellent venue for him to hone his skills, particularly if they can achieve promotion to the Premier League within the next season or two.
The teenager is still only 18 years old and has lots of time to earn a move to a Champions League team, so he should be patient and work hard to improve with Sunderland.
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