According to Darren Witcoop, Leeds United lost out to Southampton in the race to recruit Manchester City’s Taylor Hardwood-Bellis.
On Thursday [31 August], the Sunday Mirror journalist announced on his own Twitter account that the Saints are nearing a loan agreement.
England U21 international Harwood-Bellis has piqued the curiosity of a number of Championship clubs, including Leeds.
“Southampton now expected to seal loan signing of Manchester City defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis,” Witcoop tweeted.
“A number of Championship clubs, including Leeds, were interested in the England Under-21 international.”
Shame
Leeds would have made a significant show of purpose if they had defeated competition from second-tier opponents for Harwood-Bellis.
As it stands, promotion favourites Southampton appear to be closing in on a deal to bolster an already formidable squad.
Harwood-Bellis, a City defender, is effectively a £15 million player dropping down a tier, so it’s easy to see why there was so much interest.
It is unknown how far along Leeds’ interest was at this point, but it is nonetheless frustrating to have missed out.
Getting Joe Rodon from Tottenham earlier in the transfer window was a coup in and of itself, with the Welshman partnering Pascal Struijk at the back for Daniel Farke‘s men.
The Whites have failed to keep a clean sheet in six games this season, indicating that the backline could use some tightening up.
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