How much did Aston Villa bid for Taylor Harwood-Bellis?

Aston Villa reportedly submitted an offer of around £18m plus add-ons, which was rejected by Southampton.

What is Southampton's asking price for the defender?

According to reports, Southampton are holding out for a fee in the region of £25m for the former Manchester City academy player.

Why are Aston Villa looking to sign a new defender?

Villa are seeking defensive reinforcements as current centre-back Ezri Konsa is expected to join Arsenal in a deal worth over £50m.

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Villa's £18m bid for former Man City academy defender Harwood-Bellis rejected by Southampton

Southampton want around £25m for the centre-back, who came through Manchester City's youth setup. Villa are selling stars to fund replacements after losing Tielemans to United, Rogers to Chelsea and Konsa to Arsenal.

Ryan Connolly

21 August 20261 min read

Aston Villa see £18m bid for former Manchester City defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis rejected — Getty Images

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Aston Villa have had a bid worth around £18 million plus add-ons rejected by Southampton for defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis.

Villa are looking for defensive reinforcements with England centre-back Ezri Konsa set to join Arsenal for more than £50 million. Southampton are understood to want around £25 million for Harwood-Bellis.

The 24-year-old began his career in Manchester City's academy but never made a first-team appearance, leaving permanently for Southampton in 2023 after an initial loan. He has one England cap, earned against the Republic of Ireland in a 2024 Nations League match.

Why are Villa rebuilding?

Since winning the Europa League in May, Villa have lost several key players. Youri Tielemans joined Manchester United for £35 million after his release clause was triggered, Morgan Rogers moved to Chelsea for £117 million, and Lucas Digne has gone to Paris Saint-Germain.

Goalkeeper Emi Martinez and club record Premier League goalscorer Ollie Watkins have also been linked with moves away.

Villa have brought in midfielder Joao Gomes from Wolves, forward Johan Manzambi from Freiburg, goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and left-back Matteo Ruggeri.

What about Southampton?

Southampton finished fourth in the Championship last season but their play-off campaign was derailed by the Spygate scandal. They will be reluctant to lose Harwood-Bellis, who has been a consistent performer since his arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did Aston Villa bid for Taylor Harwood-Bellis?: Aston Villa reportedly submitted an offer of around £18m plus add-ons, which was rejected by Southampton.
What is Southampton's asking price for the defender?: According to reports, Southampton are holding out for a fee in the region of £25m for the former Manchester City academy player.
Why are Aston Villa looking to sign a new defender?: Villa are seeking defensive reinforcements as current centre-back Ezri Konsa is expected to join Arsenal in a deal worth over £50m.