Truth behind Man Utd interest in Jobe Bellingham move as transfer alternative emerges

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Jobe Bellingham IS on Manchester United's radar as they weigh up a shock January move.

Bellingham, younger brother of England and Real Madrid superstar Jude, was a key part of Sunderland's promotion to the Premier League last season but elected to leave the Stadium of Light in the summer to join German giants Borussia Dortmund . He was hailed as one of BVB's marquee signings when he joined in a £25million deal in July.

But where his elder brother thrived from the off at the Westfalenstadion, the younger Bellingham had made just two league starts before Saturday night's meeting with Koln, failed to score in his 11 appearances in total and has struggled to settle. Making matters worse are the growing tensions off the pitch between Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl and Bellingham's father, Mark.

The pair clashed on the opening day of the Bundesliga season when Bellingham senior, a former non-league striker and retired police sergeant, took exception to his son being substituted at half-time by head coach Niko Kovac. The decision infuriated Mark, who waited in the tunnel after the final whistle to confront members of the club's hierarchy.

The incident led to England World Cup legend Geoff Hurst labelling Bellingham senior a 'disgrace' .

Speaking at an event in Bristol, where he admitted Jude is one of the two England stars he most admires - alongside current captain Harry Kane - Hurst said: "A thing that has irritated me is a picture in one of the papers about the most powerful man in English football - and it's Jude Bellingham's father. He was complaining when his son was taken off in a game - and that is an absolute joke. If you don't eradicate that kind of thing, that is an absolute disgrace."

The scenario has led to speculation about Bellingham's future and Bild claimed United are keen earlier this month. Now, Mirror Football confirms that United are keeping close tabs on the situation with a view to a potential loan move in January.

It remains to be seen if Bellingham is willing to consider a move elsewhere, or whether he wants to stick it out at Dortmund.

But with United boss Ruben Amorim is keen to bolster his midfield options they are looking for and wide for potential new options, with Atletico Madrid's Conor Gallagher also under consideration.

The England international has fallen down the pecking order under Diego Simeone this season and wants more regular action as he fights for a World Cup place.