New contract until 2031: Real Madrid reportedly finalise contract extension for key star

Real Madrid have reportedly reached an agreement with Jude Bellingham to extend his contract early until 2031.

That's according to Spanish sports newspaper AS. Talks over an extension reportedly began towards the end of last season and have now reached a positive conclusion. Bellingham's existing deal in the Spanish capital was not due to expire until 2029.

The extension is also said to include a pay rise in recognition of the England international's performances for Real Madrid. After a sensational debut season for Real, Bellingham struggled in his second year in Madrid, partly because of physical problems. He has put those problems behind him following his shoulder operation and is again excelling at the Santiago Bernabeu and for England.

According to the report, Real's hierarchy believe Bellingham can take on a leadership role within the team. Since Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Dani Carvajal departed, no player has emerged as the new leader. Bellingham takes responsibility on and off the pitch and always gives everything in his performances, which the fans, coach and club hierarchy appreciate.

Jude Bellingham has a different role under Jose Mourinho

To keep helping Real in the final stages of the season, Bellingham postponed his operation until the summer break. Real appreciated the gesture despite ending 2025/26 without a trophy.

Under new coach Jose Mourinho, Bellingham has already scored three goals and provided three assists in the league this season. The Portuguese coach has the 23-year-old playing in a freer role behind striker Kylian Mbappe, and he is clearly benefiting from it.