Reported West Ham United target Taylor Harwood-Bellis was left out of Southampton’s squad on Saturday after Aston Villa made a bid for the England defender, just days before the Saints face the Hammers in the Carabao Cup.
West Ham were linked with Harwood-Bellis earlier this summer as Nuno Espírito Santo looked at potential defensive additions.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis left out by Southampton
Harwood-Bellis did not feature in Southampton’s squad for their 3-1 Championship victory over Stoke City at St Mary’s on Saturday.
His omission came after Southampton rejected an Aston Villa bid for the 24-year-old.
The Daily Echo reports that Villa offered around £18million, while other reports have placed the overall package closer to £20million including add-ons.
Southampton boss Tonda Eckert subsequently confirmed transfer interest played a role in his decision to leave Harwood-Bellis out.
Eckert explained that Harwood-Bellis remains committed to Southampton but acknowledged the defender naturally has thoughts about the opportunity to play Champions League football after an offer arrived.
Sky Sports also noted Harwood-Bellis’ absence when covering Southampton’s victory and confirmed the Saints had rejected Villa’s offer during the week.
West Ham interest adds intrigue before Southampton tie
Harwood-Bellis’ situation will interest West Ham for more than one reason.
ReadWestHam reported in June that the Hammers were among the clubs interested in the former Manchester City defender, although there has been no indication that West Ham have submitted a fresh bid.
That distinction matters. Aston Villa, not West Ham, have made the current offer.
However, uncertainty over one of Southampton’s most important defenders also comes immediately before Nuno takes his side to St Mary’s in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday.
We have already assessed the decisions facing the Hammers in our West Ham predicted XI against Southampton.
Harwood-Bellis played in Southampton’s opening two competitive games before Eckert omitted him against Stoke, so his availability for Tuesday will now merit close attention.
Supporters preparing for the tie can also find the television details, kick-off time and viewing information in our Southampton v West Ham how-to-watch guide.
Southampton insist Harwood-Bellis remains their player for now, but Aston Villa’s approach has introduced genuine uncertainty around his immediate future.
West Ham will watch developments with interest, both ahead of Tuesday’s meeting and with their previous admiration for the defender already established.
