Sunderland new boy Jobe Bellingham admits it's the right time to move on from boyhood club Birmingham City after signing a long-term deal at the Stadium of Light. The 17-year-old is one of the brightest young talents in English football and will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of older brother Jude - who recent signed for Real Madrid.
The pair were spotted in a Cleadon restaurant after Jobe had completed his move to Sunderland. It's a move that's been in the offing for some time, with the Black Cats hierarchy well aware of the talent the youngster possesses.
Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman and coaches Mike Dodds and Stuart English all worked at the Blues while the Bellingham brothers came through the academy set-up. The pair were invited to Sunderland's League One play-off final win at Wembley.
Jobe was also spotted at the Stadium of Light for Sunderland's first-leg win over Luton Town. The new arrivals says he can't wait to get started.
READ MORE: Sunderland sign Jobe Bellingham from Birmingham on long-term deal
“I’ve been thinking about this for a long time and I can’t wait to get started," Bellingham said. "I spent many years at Birmingham City and that really helped my development, but now felt like the right time to take the next step.
"I’m looking forward to working under the Head Coach – I want to learn and develop my game – and I feel like I’m progressing every week, so playing with good players will only help that.
"The Stadium of Light is the best atmosphere I’ve ever played in and the fans have already made me feel welcome online, so I’m excited to get going and I’m focused on letting my football speak for itself.”
Bellingham will meet up with his teammates at the Academy of Light on Monday as Tony Mowbray's men return for pre-season.
