West Ham ‘to sign Harwood-Bellis’ as Premier League race set to begin
West Ham could make a summer swoop to sign Taylor Harwood-Bellis from Southampton.
The Hammers have had a difficult campaign at times with defensive frailties being frustrating for the London Stadium faithful.
This was certainly the case against Newcastle United where a Bruno Guimaraes goal proved to be the difference between the two sides on Monday.
As a result, making a new addition at the back during the upcoming window could prove to be wise.
West Ham to beat Premier League interest for Harwood-Bellis
There is little doubt that Southampton look destined to be relegated back to the Championship after just one season back in the top flight.
This could ultimately result in a mass exodus from St Mary’s and Harwood-Bellis is likely to be one of the first out the door in the summer.
The one-cap England international could prove to be a useful addition in East London, especially after being “alerted” to the potential of signing the defender [talkSPORT].
Former Brentford and Leicester City manager Martin Allen believes there will be plenty of interest in the ex-Manchester City youngster’s signature when the Saints are eventually relegated.
“I’ve seen him play quite a few times,” Allen told West Ham Zone.
“All Premier League clubs will be looking at the teams who are going down and looking to sign their best players.
“He’s young, he’s got a good future ahead of him and looks like he’s got a good attitude.
“Would I sign him at West Ham? Yes, but I would question what level he’s at right now.“
West Ham preparing for summer transfer window
It already appears that the Irons are eyeing up the upcoming window to improve Graham Potter’s side.
Despite bringing in Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo last summer, a new centre-back is seemingly on the shopping list in E20.
Harwood-Bellis could prove to be a useful option on a cheapened deal if the Saints are to be relegated from the Premier League, which is almost guaranteed to happen.
| Stat | Taylor Harwood-Bellis |
| Successful passes | 1417 |
| Chances created | 11 |
| Touches | 1896 |
| Tackles won | 17 |
Ivan Juric is also likely to depart the south coast at the end of the season, which could make a deal easier for the Hammers to agree.
It will certainly be interesting to see if the East Londoners can make a deal happen and whether the Englishman would be keen on a move to the London Stadium.