Despite their close friendship, Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund cannot anticipate any "gifts" in their chase of Jude Bellingham, according to the managing director of the Bundesliga side.
Carsten Cramer stated that because of their relationship with Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool is the German team's preferred English club, but there would be no sentiment when it comes to decisions regarding the future of Bellingham.
"We definitely feel a lot of compassion for Liverpool. We still get along well with Jurgen and many other people at Liverpool, so that makes them my preferred Premier League team as well. But don't anticipate us to give Liverpool any gifts," Cramer warned.
At the Qatar World Cup, Bellingham has proven why he is one of the most sought-after footballers in the world, and his elegant midfield performances have highlighted why he is Klopp's top transfer target.
Liverpool has been open about wanting a top-tier central midfielder, but in recent weeks they have also voiced their worries about losing a bidding war when a player's worth increases.
Erling Haaland left Dortmund last summer, and Klopp was not even mentioned in the discussion because of his pay at Manchester City, which is double that of anyone at Anfield.
The 19-year-old has been linked with moves to City, Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Manchester United, and Liverpool's spending restrictions explain why they are more outspokenly looking for financial assistance.
Since sports director Julian Ward submitted his resignation notice to leave at the end of the current campaign, the situation at Anfield has also gotten more problematic.
Cramer stated that Dortmund still hoped to retain Bellingham for the length of his contract, which runs through 2025, while the team was on its winter tour in Vietnam.
According to Cramer in an interview with Vietnam News, "Maybe there is a success existing between Jude Bellingham and (England's) success in the World Cup." Jude is bound by a contract. I work as a salesperson for commercial clients, but not for business.The more time Jude plays for us, the better. We are thrilled to have him on board in every way.