West Ham United have been linked this afternoon with an alternative defensive option following the stalling of a deal for Axel Disasi.
Attention has now turned to Taylor Harwood-Bellis of Southampton, a player West Ham have been linked with on several occasions in the past.
Most of the major outlets are now reporting Hammers interest, and Claret & Hugh have been told within the last hour that Harwood-Bellis is very much viewed as a “Nuno pick”. That claim, however, should be taken with a pinch of salt, given the defender is represented by agent Will Salthouse.
As reported earlier today, talks for Chelsea defender Disasi have stalled while Chelsea look to complete their own recruitment before sanctioning any outgoing deals.
A Very Different Profile to Disasi
Harwood-Bellis is a former Manchester City academy graduate, noted for his leadership qualities and organisational skills. He has also represented — and scored for — England at senior level.
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That said, he is a very different type of defender to Disasi. The contrast between the two targets may suggest that West Ham are becoming increasingly pressed for time as the window draws to a close — and are now exploring any viable route to defensive reinforcement before the deadline slams shut.