Like many others, Bryan Robson expressed his belief that the midfielder would sign with Borussia Dortmund, and he was shocked when the player signed with them instead.

After an £88 million transfer this summer, Bellingham is now a star for Real Madrid. He has risen to the occasion and appears to be a true world beater.

Sir Alex Ferguson met Jude Bellingham

Legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson met with Jude Bellingham and this was seen as a clear way for Manchester United to close the deal.

However, details are now emerging over the meeting which left Ferguson furious, that the sales pitch did not go properly.

According to The Athletic, Ferguson felt he did not get enough time to talk properly with Bellingham and was utilised as window-dressing in the club’s botched attempt at a deal, with football director John Murtough blamed.

The report states: “Ferguson shook hands with Bellingham, 16 at the time, but rather than allow them time to talk, sources say Murtough guided the player and his parents out of the room for a tour of the facilities.

“Ferguson was reportedly incandescent at the perceived slight and said so to Murtough’s face at a later date.”

Jude Bellingham has gone onto establish himself as a top player at a position in midfield where Manchester United have needed the help.

John Murtough position under scrutiny

The report adds that John Murtough’s position at Manchester United is under increased scrutiny from incoming investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

His recent trip to Saudi Arabia to try and negotiate player exits is described by some as ‘too late’, with other clubs like Chelsea maximising this avenue earlier in the summer.

It is claimed United promoted Murtough to football director after he received a job offer from Inter Miami, while his fallout with Nicky Butt is also revisited.

Murtough may still end up staying at United under Ineos, but it likely will be under a different role, with Dan Ashworth and Paul Mitchell among the new brains-trust Ratcliffe and advisor Dave Brailsford wish to appoint.