Graham Smyth has replied to a Leeds United fan on Twitter when asked if Manchester City talent Taylor Harwood-Bellis is a target for the club – and responded by saying he is on the list, but is one of a number of players targeted.
Harwood-Bellis, 21, has enjoyed a wonderful 12 months. Joining Burnley on loan from City last summer, he helped Vincent Kompany’s side gain promotion. But a permanent deal is yet to be completed. He played 35 times for them.
This summer, he played a crucial role in England U21’s winning the European Championships – starting over Charlie Cresswell. He has entered the final 12 months of his contract at City, too. The Sun (30/7; page 59), say we are keen.
A fee of £15m is required with City open to his exit, but Leeds face competition from Premier League clubs Fulham and West Ham. Smyth told a fan that the YEP have been told he is a target, but he is on a list alongside Nat Phillips.
Harwood-Bellis on Leeds list but one of a number of players targeted
Harwood-Bellis would be a wonderful signing, but you would imagine that if he was to pick Leeds over Fulham or West Ham – it would have to be a permanent deal. No chance he returns to the second tier on loan this season.
Premier League clubs may have more success in landing him on loan, as it is a step up – and City strike a new deal in terms of his contract. But Leeds is a sideways move from his loan at Burnley. If Leeds want him, we will have to pay.
Is he worth £15m? Probably not straight away, but he has the potential to easily eclipse that fee – and go on to be a Premier League centre-back with England caps. He is certainly a level above Cresswell, proven this summer.
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