Bellingham opens up on Man City transfer talks & 4 factors which swayed decision

Jude Bellingham insists he has no regrets at snubbing Treble winners Manchester City and opting instead to join Real Madrid.

City wanted to sign Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund last summer, with boss Pep Guardiola ultimately unsuccessful in trying to persuade the 20-year-old to make the switch. Bellingham said it was a "no-brainer" to join Spanish giants Real - in a deal worth up to £115million - and said his decision had been vindicated by his successful debut season.

“I had good chats with clubs, including Dortmund,” said Bellingham, ahead of the quarter-final, second leg clash at the Etihad Stadium. "My family were great in helping me chew up that information, because it’s difficult, while you're still in the season, to take in the information and process it and still have to play at the weekend or in the Champions League.

“I had conversations with other teams, but when Madrid came in, it was a no-brainer really. The size of the club, the project, the plan going forward, the chance to play with such amazing players. I just jumped at it. That’s why I made my decision.”

Bellingham has thrived at Real, becoming a key player for Carlo Ancelotti's side, with 20 goals and 10 assists, helping Real to an eight-point lead at the top of La Liga, with the title in their sights. Against that backdrop, and with Real hoping to advance to the semi-finals of the Champions League, Bellingham has no regrets at turning his back on the chance to play in the Premier League.

"I feel grateful every time in training and that feeling will never feel old,” said Bellingham, who was asked if he had surprised himself with how quickly he has adapted to life in Spain. “That’s just down to the team, the lads,” said Bellingham. “I can pick anything -