Tennis superstar Carlos Alcaraz explains why Jude Bellingham will join him as world No.1 following €103m transfer to Real Madrid

Alcaraz, like fellow king of the courts Rafa Nadal, is an avid Blancos supporter. As a result, he is keeping a close eye on how England international Bellingham is getting on at Santiago Bernabeu following a €103 million (£88m/$111m) transfer from Borussia Dortmund.

The 20-year-old midfielder has made the best possible start to life in Spain – netting five goals across all four of his La Liga appearances to date. That record has seen him match one previously posted by five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.

Bellingham may contend for a Golden Ball of his own at some stage, with Alcaraz – who is looking to defend his US Open title at present after capturing the Wimbledon crown for the first time in his career – believes his fellow youngster is destined for greatness.

“I'm really happy to watch him play in Real Madrid. He's such a great, talented player, one of the best in the world," Alcaraz said. "I'm sure that he's going to be the best player in the world in that position. I'm just really, really happy to have him in the team. I talk a little bit with him. He's such a great person, as well. He’s a complete guy.”

Alcaraz knows what it takes to reach the top of the world, having achieved that feat in his chosen profession while still in his teens. Bellingham has also reached great heights at a young age and appears destined to become a firm favourite among the demanding fan base in Madrid.