Real Madrid’s success in recent years has been built around the midfield trio of Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

All three are now into their thirties, and the latter two only have one year left on their respective contracts. 

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez understands they cannot continue forever and has now identified a replacement for Modric.

Real Madrid president Perez has reportedly made Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham a transfer target for next summer.

Bellingham could play alongside Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga in midfield for Real Madrid next year.

With Tchouameni aged 22, Camavinga aged 19 and Bellingham aged 18, Real Madrid are building a midfield that will play together for the next decade.

It is understood that Bellingham would likely cost around €100million (£85m), although Real Madrid are hoping the midfielder can be signed for €90m (£77m).

Real Madrid are set to face competition for Bellingham from Premier League duo Liverpool and Chelsea, who could be willing to spend big to tempt the teenager back to England.

Bellingham still has three years remaining on his current deal at Dortmund, and does not have a release clause in his contract, leaving the German outfit in a strong position at the negotiating table.

Bellingham turns 19 on Wednesday but is already regarded as one of the finest midfielders in the world.

He has made 89 appearances for Borussia Dortmund since joining two years ago and has 15 caps for England.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are confident of beating Real Madrid to the signing of Bellingham, according to The Sun.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is a huge fan of the Borussia Dortmund star and has already earmarked him as his top target in 12 months time.

Liverpool believe they are favourites to sign Bellingham as they can guarantee him a place in their starting XI.