Jobe Bellingham has officially made the leap from Sunderland to Borussia Dortmund, sealing a five-year contract that ties him to the Bundesliga giants until June 2030. The 19-year-old midfielder's transfer marks a club-record deal for Sunderland, reportedly valued at 32 million euros (£26.96 million) plus an additional 5 million euros (£4.2 million) in potential add-ons. This move not only highlights Bellingham's rising stock in European football but also continues the Bellingham family’s strong ties with Dortmund, following in the footsteps of his older brother Jude.
Bellingham's journey to this point has been marked by steady progression and notable achievements. Originally a product of Birmingham City's academy, he spent two years with their senior team before transferring to Sunderland in 2023. Over the past two seasons, he has made 90 appearances for the Black Cats, including 43 last season alone, contributing four goals across all competitions. His performances were instrumental in Sunderland's promotion to the Premier League, a feat capped by their victory at Wembley in the play-off final.
His efforts did not go unnoticed, as Bellingham was named the Championship Young Player of the Season for the 2024-25 campaign. His dynamic midfield presence combined with his maturity on the pitch have drawn praise from fans and pundits alike. Sunderland's official statements confirm the transfer fee as a club record, underscoring the significant faith Dortmund places in the young talent.
On the day of the announcement, Borussia Dortmund included Bellingham in their squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States starting June 15, 2025. Dortmund’s first group stage match will pit them against Brazilian side Fluminense on June 17 at 17:00 BST, providing an early opportunity for Bellingham to showcase his skills on an international club stage. Notably, his participation in the Club World Cup has led to his withdrawal from the England Under-21 squad for the European Under-21 Championship in Slovakia, which runs from June 11 to 28, 2025. England U21 head coach Lee Carsley had indicated that players would be released for the Club World Cup, prioritizing the tournament for those involved.
Jobe’s transfer also carries a sentimental note, reflecting the strong bond he has built with Sunderland supporters. In an emotional farewell posted on Instagram, Bellingham expressed his gratitude to the club and its fans: “Dear Sunderland, it’s time for me to say farewell to all the loyal people of Sunderland, who have powered me through two incredible years in Red and White. Your support, on so many occasions, has completely blown me away, especially in the times of adversity which we pulled through together.”
He continued, “You welcomed me with open arms as a kid leaving home for the first time, and I am proud that our relationship has grown to be so strong ever since. I will always represent Wearside in all that I strive to achieve for the rest of my career, wherever that may be. I hope that I have made you proud along the way, and in return you have made me the player that has reached the heights I find myself at today. So thank you. I will love and remember you fondly for the rest of my life, from the bottom of my heart.”
Adding to the emotional weight of his departure, Bellingham reflected on the passion shared between himself and the city: “I tried to embody the passion you have for the city on the football pitch and I’m so incredibly delighted that our journey came to an end with a victory at Wembley to restore the club in its rightful place.” His heartfelt message also extended to the staff, players, and supporters, wishing them good luck for the future.
At Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham will don the number 77 jersey and has opted to have his first name, “Jobe,” printed on the back of his shirt, a choice that perhaps seeks to carve out his own identity separate from the immense shadow cast by his brother Jude. Jude Bellingham’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable: after rising through Birmingham City's ranks, he spent three influential years at Dortmund before securing a high-profile transfer to Real Madrid in 2023 for a deal reportedly worth up to £114 million. Jude’s success at Dortmund, where he made over 130 appearances, undoubtedly sets a high bar for Jobe, but the younger sibling appears ready to embrace the challenge.
Jobe’s signing ranks as Dortmund's second most expensive in history, surpassed only by the acquisition of Ousmane Dembele in 2016. The initial £26.9 million fee eclipses the £25 million Dortmund paid for Jude in 2020, signaling the club’s confidence in Jobe's potential to contribute significantly to their ambitions.
Upon joining Dortmund, Bellingham expressed his excitement and commitment: “I’m very happy to be a Borussia Dortmund player now and to fight for titles together with this great club. I want to play my part in celebrating success with these great fans here and will work on myself and with the team every day. And I’m very happy that I’ll be wearing the black and yellow jersey at the FIFA Club World Cup.”
Dortmund themselves have had a strong recent season, securing Champions League qualification by finishing fourth in the Bundesliga. The addition of Jobe Bellingham bolsters their midfield options as they look to compete on multiple fronts, including domestic and international trophies. His arrival at this juncture offers fresh energy and promise, especially given his experience in high-pressure matches during Sunderland's promotion campaign.
As the football world watches, Bellingham's transition to Dortmund serves as a compelling narrative of youth talent ascending the ranks of European football. His early career has already been punctuated by significant milestones, and this latest move positions him on a stage where he can further develop and make a name for himself independent of his brother’s legacy.
With the Club World Cup kicking off imminently, fans will be eager to see how Jobe adapts to his new environment and how quickly he can impact Dortmund’s performances. His withdrawal from the England U21 Championship underscores the importance Dortmund places on his immediate involvement and the potential they see in him to contribute at the highest levels.
In the coming months, all eyes will be on the young midfielder as he embarks on this exciting chapter. For Sunderland supporters, there is a bittersweet pride in seeing one of their own step onto a grander stage, carrying the spirit of Wearside with him. For Dortmund, Jobe Bellingham represents both a valuable asset and a promising future as they seek to reclaim domestic glory and make their mark in Europe once again.
