Jude Bellingham remains one of the priorities for Real Madrid heading into a reported revolutionary summer transfer window. The Englishman is in close proximity to Los Blancos, who hope to secure his signature at the earliest.

After a series of departures that relieved a great deal of strain from Madrid’s weighty wage bill, allotments are open in abundance, with Bellingham set to fill in the midfield department.

The Borussia Dortmund sensation is currently a highly sought-after asset, given he secured the Player of the Year award in the Bundesliga.

With Real Madrid reportedly set to spend €100-120 million on his signing, El Mundo claims Bellingham would be given the legendary No. 7 jersey at the club with Eden Hazard’s exit leaving the kit free for any potential successors.

Success for players with this number has dried up as the previous owners of the iconic ‘7’ were Hazard and Mariano, who endured their fair share of struggles.

But Real Madrid have a long list of legendary players who have worn the No. 7 jersey. Some of the names that come to mind immediately are Cristiano Ronaldo, Raul, Amancio, Emilio Butragueno, and Raymond Kopa.

In such a context, Bellingham will undeniably have big boots to fill as expectations will be mounting.

Nonetheless, the Englishman has shown a history of shining under gruelling circumstances. From making a name for himself at Birmingham City to prevailing in a completely foreign land with Dortmund, he continues to elevate to greater heights.

Given Real Madrid have lacked a successful spell with their recent number 7s, passing the torch to a player that will come for a mammoth fee does make sense.

However, Bellingham is unlikely to be the only superstar signing this summer as links with the likes of Harry Kane and Kai Havertz continue to intensify. If Madrid secure more attacking signings, competition for the iconic shirt number will undeniably rise.