Aston Villa target Taylor Harwood-Bellis wants to join Unai Emery’s side despite Southampton rejecting two offers for the England defender. The 24-year-old’s willingness to move to Villa Park was reportedly a factor in his absence against Stoke City, although Southampton continue to demand around £30million.
Villa have identified Harwood-Bellis as their preferred replacement for Ezri Konsa following the centre-back’s departure for Arsenal.
An opening £18m proposal was rejected before Southampton turned down a second offer worth £20m plus £4m in potential add-ons.
However, there has now been a significant development concerning the defender’s own position.
Aston Villa target Taylor Harwood-Bellis wants move
TEAMtalk reports that Harwood-Bellis has made clear he is keen to join Villa.
Personal terms are not expected to present a major obstacle if the clubs can agree a transfer fee, although no agreement has been reached.
His willingness to move was also reportedly a factor in Southampton leaving him out of Saturday’s 3-1 Championship victory against Stoke.
Saints head coach Tonda Eckert acknowledged that the transfer interest had influenced his selection decision.
“He loves this club so much, he loves his teammates so much, but then at the same time you have an offer coming in,” Eckert explained.
The Southampton manager also suggested the prospect of playing Champions League football could be difficult for a player to ignore.
Southampton maintain £30m valuation
Harwood-Bellis wanting the move does not mean a deal is imminent.
Southampton remain determined to secure approximately £30m, leaving Villa with a decision over whether to increase their offer.
Emery’s side are also weighing up a move for Club Brugge defender Joel Ordóñez, although the Ecuador international could command a similar fee.
Ordóñez is currently recovering from a metatarsal injury, potentially making Harwood-Bellis the more immediate solution as Villa seek defensive reinforcements.
Sunday’s 4-0 defeat at Brighton increased the urgency surrounding Emery’s search for a new centre-back, with Arsenal visiting Villa Park next Monday.
Harwood-Bellis has now indicated where he would like his future to lie. The next step depends on whether Villa and Southampton can close the gap between their respective valuations.
