Leeds United make £15m decision on signing Taylor Harwood-Bellis from Manchester City

Leeds United were put off on a move for Manchester City centre-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis due to his £15million valuation, according to Sun journalist Alan Nixon.

Nixon claimed on his Patreon (17 August) that the likes of West Ham, Fulham, and Burnley mirrored the Whites’ thinking in regard to the price tag, while Nottingham Forest have emerged as the latest Premier League side to turn their attention to the England under-21 star.

The 21-year-old spent last season on loan to Burnley and helped them achieve promotion, but he has absent from City’s UEFA Super Cup clash on Wednesday (16 August), suggesting a move would be needed if he wants game time.

How much?!

While a very high-potential and experienced player for his age, £15million appears to be slightly too much for these clubs.

£15million feels like great value in today’s inflated market. Leeds understandably may not be able to stretch their funds for such a player following relegation and minimal money from a massive wave of departures. But a move for the youngster would be shrewd for the likes of West Ham and Burnley.

While their defence is not perfect by a long way, they have brought in four defensive signings this window including Sam Byram, Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon on loan and goalkeeper Karl Darlow.

Following the departures of Rodrigo, Brenden Aaronson, Jack Harrison and the likely departures of Willy Gnonto and Luis Sinisterra, perhaps the front line needs addressing.

Harwood-Bellis is probably ready for a Premier League move considering he was vital in Burnley’s promotion win and has been deemed good enough to stay with Pep Guardiola’s side. Having won the under-21s European Championship with England this year too, he has the foundations to be a great defender.

Not for Leeds though.