David Seaman makes 'realistic' transfer prediction between Jude Bellingham and Arsenal - EXCLUSIVE

Arsenal legend David Seaman has weighed in on the prospect of Jude Bellingham moving to the Emirates next summer. The teenager has already impressed in a starting role at the 2022 World Cup, with top clubs across Europe lining up to try and sign him from Borussia Dortmund.

Before this season, Arsenal competing head-to-head with Real Madrid, Liverpool and Manchester City in the transfer market would have been considered virtually impossible. But Mikel Arteta has finally gotten an effective air from his north London side, and they are currently five points clear at the top of the Premier League.

Signing the 19-year-old would be an effective way to solve his midfield depth issue, while his top-flight status means a big move might not be entirely out of the question. Bellingham shone in England's World Cup opener against Iran last week, scoring his first major tournament goal in an emphatic 6-2 win.

His performance in the goalless draw with the United States was more subdued, but Bellingham remains in high demand ahead of an expected transfer next summer.

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When asked which teams had a chance of signing him, Seaman, speaking at Budweiser Fan Fest in London, told Express Sport: "Arsenal, I hope. I would like to think that they have a realistic chance of signing him, but it depends on how they finish the season.

"It's so weird that we're almost halfway through a season and have cut it short, with players who have yet to come back. I'd love to see him at Arsenal. He's a special player . Looks like he's been playing for England for the last 10 years. He's so special for his age."

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If Arsenal officially join the race for Bellingham, they may have to catch up with Liverpool and Madrid, who are seen by many as frontrunners. Manchester United have also scouted the midfielder widely, while Manchester City can give him the appeal of working under Pep Guardiola and alongside former Dortmund team-mate Erling Haaland.

Despite Bellingham's glaring promise, some England fans are calling for a midfield reshuffle after a lackluster performance against USA. James Maddison is among the players in contention for major tournament minutes, but Seaman believes Gareth Southgate should handle the injured Leicester City star with caution.

"His role in the tournament will depend on the state of his injury," he added. "That's the most important thing. Don't forget that Kyle Walker has to come back as well. With Maddison it's just about making sure he's ready when he arrives.

"He can come into play and affect games. You also have Kalvin Phillips who can provide something more defensive. But with Maddison you have the ability to attack, put him on set pieces. He is a good inclusion in the team but...