Fresh off helping Sunderland win promotion to the Premier League, 19-year-old Jobe Bellingham is now taking the next big step in his football journey—signing with Borussia Dortmund.
And yes, that’s the same Dortmund where his older brother Jude made a name for himself before becoming a star at Real Madrid.
Dortmund Seal Deal Worth Up to £32 Million
The Bundesliga club announced they’ve signed Jobe on a deal that could be worth up to £32 million, including £27.8 million up front and another £4.2 million in potential add-ons.
That fee makes Jobe Sunderland’s record sale, beating out the £25 million Everton paid for Jordan Pickford back in 2017.
A Bellingham Reunion in the Club World Cup?
In an exciting twist, there’s a chance that Jobe could come face-to-face with Jude on the world stage.
Dortmund and Real Madrid are in different groups for the newly-expanded FIFA Club World Cup this summer in the United States, but they could end up meeting in the knockout rounds.
Jobe confirmed he’s stepping away from England’s European U21 Championship squad to focus on his new adventure with Dortmund.
Making His Own Name, Not Just Jude’s Brother
While Jobe has grown up in Jude’s shadow, watching him play for Dortmund during those three formative years, he made it clear he’s not there to simply follow his brother’s legacy.
“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,” Jobe said.
He’ll be wearing the number 77 shirt and is determined to carve out his own identity in black and yellow.
Dortmund Fend Off Rivals to Land Rising Star
Jobe had no shortage of admirers—Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig were both interested—but Dortmund’s vision and familiarity won him over.
The club’s sporting director, Sebastian Kehl, said Dortmund have tracked his progress for years and were impressed with how much he’s grown, particularly in the past year.
“At 19, he’s matured into an absolute leader,” said Kehl.
“His presence and charisma in central midfield are remarkable and will make us better in a variety of systems.”
A Family Affair, But Bigger Ambitions Ahead
Jobe’s journey began at Birmingham City, just like Jude’s, and he moved to Sunderland for just £1 million.
After a breakout season—playing 43 games and being a key part of their promotion—his value skyrocketed.
Older brother Jude was quick to show his support, posting on social media:
“Your time, enjoy every second!”
And fun fact: Jobe was there in 2020 when Jude first signed for Dortmund. Five years later, it’s now his moment.
Dortmund Look Ahead to Club World Cup with Jobe
Dortmund are gearing up for their Club World Cup campaign in the US, and Jobe is expected to feature heavily.
With 32 teams now in the tournament, there’s plenty of spotlight to go around—and Dortmund are thrilled to have Jobe in their ranks just in time.
“He’s passionate, he’s ready, and he wants to make his own mark at BVB,” said Kehl.
So from Birmingham to Sunderland, and now to Dortmund, Jobe Bellingham is not just following in his brother’s footsteps—he’s starting to make some footprints of his own.