West Ham United Want To Sign 23-Year-Old Defender: Will He Be A Good Signing? | OneFootball

West Ham United news: As we approach the start of the summer transfer window, several Premier League clubs are already starting to make moves. The seasons has already ended, evaluations are being made, and with that comes adjustments. Some teams are looking to rebuild after disappointing campaigns, others are trying to strengthen their squad in order to compete more consistently.

In this scenario, defensive moves become relevant, especially when it comes to teams that have shown vulnerabilities. One of them are West Ham United, a team that closed the campaign with more doubts than certainties, especially in defence. The interest in new players at the back is not surprising. In fact, there are already concrete names in the club’s sights.

West Ham United Want To Sign Taylor Harwood-Bellis

According to TEAMtalk, West Ham have stepped up their pursuit of Taylor Harwood-Bellis, currently a central defender at Southampton. At just 23 years old, he has started 38 games this season. Although his club were relegated, his personal performances were outstanding.

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – JANUARY 19: Taylor Harwood-Bellis of Southampton shows dejection after defeat in the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest FC and Southampton FC at City Ground on January 19, 2025 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

He even managed to make his debut for the England senior team last November. The Hammers consider the player a priority to strengthen their defence. The east London club have enquired about his availability and are determined to make a firm offer. Other English clubs are also keeping a close eye on him, but West Ham seem determined to go ahead.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis would be a sensible addition. He has age on his side, Championship and Premier League experience, and already knows how to respond under pressure. His level did not drop despite his team’s bad year. The player knows how to anticipate, reads opposition attacks well and doesn’t complicate things on the ball.

Will He Be A Good Signing?

That clarity in difficult areas is exactly what West Ham, who have conceded 62 goals in 38 games, need. Defence has been a constant weakness. The arrival of Graham Potter did not change that trend. Harwood-Bellis is not a magic solution, but he has a profile that aligns with the real needs of the team.

Now, can West Ham sign him? Southampton won’t let him go easily. They signed him for over £20 million and will be looking to at least recoup that figure. However, the player would probably prefer to stay in the Premier League. That willingness may tip the balance in favor of the Hammers.

A different angle is to think about what Harwood-Bellis would do if he opted to stay: be a leader of a rebuilding team and be assured minutes. But playing at the elite can be a deciding factor. If West Ham make a decisive move, they can close the deal. It would be a logical step for both the club and the player.