Real Madrid have stepped up their chase for midfield reinforcements in recent years as the club slowly look to move on from ageing stars such as Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

The reigning European giants roped in Aurelien Tchouameni this past summer to strengthen their ranks in the middle of the park. And it appears coach Carlo Ancelotti is keen on signing more players that can add further depth to the second line of press.

One of the players targeted by Los Blancos is Jude Bellingham. The Borussia Dortmund starlet has been identified as the ideal option for Real Madrid due to his leadership qualities and aggression that is well beyond his years.

At just 19, Bellingham has established himself as one of the most talented young players on the planet, while becoming a regular part of the English national team. With that, he has also become one of the most sought-after players in the market, with Real Madrid among the clubs interested in his services.

However, according to a fresh report from The Telegraph, Real Madrid are set to face a fierce battle in the race to sign Bellingham, as Liverpool are currently leading the chase to sign the Borussia Dortmund starlet.

The report adds that Liverpool are determined to sign a top-quality midfielder next summer, as Jurgen Klopp looks to move on from his own ageing set of stars including Jordan Henderson, James Milner and even Thiago Alcantara.

Bellingham has been identified as the desired option for Liverpool, who have been tracking the youngster’s progress for quite some time now.

Bellingham himself idolises former Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard and may fancy a move to Anfield next summer, in his bid to fill in the shoes of England great.

Real Madrid, though, are not expected to give up the pursuit of Bellingham easily, knowing the Englishman is a generational talent who is more than capable of becoming the next big thing in football. But whether or not they can pip Liverpool in the chase remains to be seen.