Transfer Bid Details
The New Saints rejected an opening £18 million bid from Premier League side Aston Villa for defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis. The offer was guaranteed at £18 million and was made as Villa seeks a new centre-back. Harwood-Bellis, the Saints’ vice-captain, is contracted until 2028.
Saints’ Valuation
The club values Harwood-Bellis in the £25-30 million range, a figure it considers well above the £18 million offer. The club paid £20 million to sign the player from Manchester City two years ago, after he joined on loan in 2023. The Saints also noted that the total package from Villa is not much higher than a previous offer of at least £17 million.
Harwood-Bellis’ Background
The 24-year-old has been a key figure for the Saints, making 48 appearances in all competitions last season, including 41 in the Championship. He earned his first England cap against the Republic of Ireland in November 2024 and scored in that match, his only senior international appearance to date. The player’s performance has attracted interest from other clubs.
Current Market Context
Villa’s approach follows a recent offer which had proposed at least £17 million for Harwood-Bellis but was turned down by the Saints last week. The club’s decision reflects its assessment that the player’s value remains higher than the current bids. As the transfer window progresses, the Saints remain firm on their valuation, while Villa continues to seek a new centre-back to bolster their defence.
