Update from the bet365 Stadium: Ex-Stoke City loanee Taylor Harwood-Bellis contributes to Southampton’s victory over Leeds United in the Championship playoff final.
Former Stoke City defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis has sealed a permanent £20 million move to Southampton following the club’s promotion to the Premier League.
Southampton secured their return to the top flight with a 1-0 victory over Leeds United in the Championship playoff final at Wembley, with Adam Armstrong netting the decisive goal. This achievement marked Harwood-Bellis’s second successive promotion after he had previously helped Burnley clinch the title during his loan spell there.
The move to Southampton was initially on loan from Manchester City, but a clause in the deal made it an obligation to buy for a predetermined fee in the event of promotion. Harwood-Bellis, who made 46 appearances throughout the season, expressed his joy at the prospect of joining Southampton permanently, emphasizing his excitement to continue his journey with the club in the Premier League.
Reflecting on his journey, Harwood-Bellis highlighted the contrasting experiences of winning promotion with both Burnley and Southampton, expressing his gratitude for the opportunities he has had. His stint at Stoke City during the 2021/22 season provided him with valuable Championship experience, setting the stage for his subsequent success.
Southampton manager Russell Martin hailed Harwood-Bellis’s potential, predicting that the 22-year-old defender, who has represented England at the under-21 level 23 times, will have a significant international career. Martin expressed his delight at the prospect of continuing to work with Harwood-Bellis, underscoring his belief in the player’s future success and the role Southampton can play in his development.