by Staff Writer
Saturday, 31st January 2026
Southampton have rejected a bid from West Ham United for central defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis.
The 24-year-old was the subject of a bid in the region of £12million from West Ham, with the club desperate to add to Nuno Santo's defensive options ahead of Monday evening's 7pm deadline.
However the Saints, who, barring a late surge up the table are not going to be involved in the battle for promotion, instantly rejected United's offer. It is believed the south coast side are holding out for £20million-plus for Harwood-Bellis.
The defender, who has one senior England cap - and a goal - to his name from an appearance against the Republic of Ireland in November 2024, is said to be keen on a move to east London.
Harwood-Bellis, who began his career with Manchester City before securing a £20million move to Southampton following loan spells with Blackburn, Anderlecht, Stoke City and Burnley is engaged to Leah Keane, daughter of former Manchester United midfielder and TV pundit Roy Keane.
West Ham have previously signed Kyle Walker-Peters and Mateus Fernandes from the Southampton side relegated to the Championship last season.
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