Manchester City didn't roll out the red carpet when they tried to sign Jude Bellingham.

The Real Madrid midfielder did a tour of many top English clubs, including City and Manchester United.

While United did give him a big welcome, City are said to have been more low key in their approach.

Per the Daily Star, City did make an approach to Bellingham in the summer of 2023.

He was wanted by manager Pep Guardiola to replace the departing Ilkay Gundogan.

He was invited to get a shirt signed by Erling Haaland when City played Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League group stages.

Guardiola even spoke with Bellingham, but the Englishman went on to choose Real.