Jude Bellingham is close to agreeing a new contract with Real Madrid that would keep him at the club until 2031, but the England midfielder is still expected to face a major career decision over whether to remain in Spain or eventually move to the Premier League.
The five-year extension will be on improved terms and reflects Bellingham’s growing influence at the Bernabeu, where he has established himself as one of Real Madrid’s leading players.
The agreement would take Bellingham to the age of 28 and put him on course to spend almost a decade in Madrid after joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2023.
However, sources believe the 23-year-old retains a long-term ambition to experience the Premier League. Despite being one of England’s most prominent footballers, Bellingham has never played in the competition.
There is no indication of an immediate departure. Negotiations over a new deal began six months ago and are now nearing a conclusion, with an announcement expected once the extension is finalised.
Bellingham’s commitment to Real Madrid
Bellingham’s attachment to Real Madrid has grown considerably since his arrival in Spain. Those close to the situation believe it would not be a surprise if he eventually chose to extend his stay again and spend a significant further period of his career at the club.
His current objective is to become an icon at the Bernabeu. His performances and personality have made him a central figure at Real Madrid, while his importance to the club extends beyond his work on the pitch.
Jose Mourinho is also a major admirer of Bellingham, whose profile has helped increase Real Madrid’s worldwide marketing reach.
For the moment, Bellingham’s focus remains firmly on Madrid. The new contract would give him greater security and more time to pursue his immediate ambitions in Spain, rather than signalling that he is preparing to leave.
The prospect of playing in England remains part of his long-term plans, but the question is whether that desire will one day become powerful enough to persuade him to end his Real Madrid career.