West Ham want Taylor Harwood-Bellis as talks update shared for next signing
West Ham United have set their sights on Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis as they seek a new defender.
The Hammers have until 7pm on Monday to strengthen at the back, having so far recruited three new attackers – Taty Castellanos, Adama Traore and Pablo – for Nuno Espirito Santo.
Axel Disasi remains a target for West Ham, with an update now being provided on both the Chelsea ace and Harwood-Bellis.
And it looks as though at least one deal is now ramping up towards a conclusion.
Southampton’s stance on Taylor Harwood-Bellis sale
Harwood-Bellis has long been considered a defender who could rack up countless England senior caps.
However, his first and only cap for England came in November 2024 under interim manager Lee Carsley.
Southampton’s relegation to the Championship last season certainly did not help, but he still has plenty of admirers.
Indeed, Sky Sports reported via their transfer blog on Friday that West Ham are considering a move for the 24-year-old.
But that initial interest does not appear likely to get very far, as Southampton are not considering selling Harwood-Bellis.
The same report adds, though, that talks are ongoing between West Ham and Chelsea over a deal for Disasi.
Should that be concluded in time, it will be a straight loan deal until the end of the season.
West Ham previously failed with Harwood-Bellis bid
Harwood-Bellis’ name is not new to West Ham fans, given the former Manchester City player was also linked in the summer.
It later emerged that West Ham missed out on Harwood-Bellis and fellow England youth international Charlie Cresswell late in the window.
This was down to David Sullivan only offering to take both players on loan, with an option to buy down the line.
Southampton were instead after a £2.5million loan fee and a potential £17.5m this coming summer had the move been made permanent.
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