There could be transfer movement at Southampton before the summer window closes with reports claiming Taylor Harwood-Bellis is wanted by Benfica.
English defender Harwood-Bellis, who earned his one and only cap for his country in 2024, spent the 2023/24 season on loan at St Mary's with the proviso that the move would be made permanent for £20 million, if the club were promoted.
Southampton defeated Leeds United in the play-off final, securing their place in the top flight, with Harwood-Bellis signing a four-year deal with the south-coast outfit in July 2024.
He made 38 appearances in the 2024/25 campaign, as the Saints suffered relegation to the Championship, before featuring in 48 matches last season.
Harwood-Bellis played in Southampton's EFL Cup first-round win over Colchester United last weekend and he is expected to start in the league opener against Watford at Vicarage Road on Sunday.
Southampton are 21/20 to pick up the win in Hertfordshire, with the draw priced at 5/2 and Watford also available at 5/2 to claim the spoils.
Benfica keen on Harwood-Bellis
But how long the defender remains at the Saints is up for debate, following reports Benfica have seen a 20 million euros offer turned down.
Southampton value their centre-back at a higher amount, which is believed to be closer to the £30m mark, and it is thought Benfica will return with an improved offer.
Head coach Marco Silva, who left Fulham this summer after the expiry of his contract before taking charge of the Portuguese giants, is said to be a big admirer of the Englishman.
Saints preparing for exit
Should an acceptable offer come in for Harwood-Bellis, Southampton will need to bring in a replacement and it is claimed they have a key target.
The Saints are looking into a move for Feyenoord's Anel Ahmedhodzic, who can play in defence and midfield.
The 27-year-old has experience of English football, having started his career at Nottingham Forest and played for Sheffield United from 2022-2025.
Ahmedhodzic moved to Feyenoord in a deal worth 7m euros in August 2025 and it is thought a bid in excess of 10m euros will be required to acquire his services.
He made 36 appearances during his debut season at De Kuip, but he was left out of the matchday squad against Sparta last Sunday and an August exit looks to be on the cards.
Southampton are not alone in their interest in the Bosnia and Herzegovina international, though, with several clubs across Europe said to be monitoring his situation, as well as his former employers, the Blades.
This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
