Why Man City defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis chose Southampton over Premier League move

Southampton director of football Jason Wilcox insists Taylor Harwood-Bellis turned down Premier League interest as he deemed the Championship side a 'better fit'.

Harwood-Bellis joined Southampton on deadline day, agreeing a season-long loan with Russell Martin's side after signing a contract extension at Manchester City. The 21-year-old's will be made permanent for around £20million, should he help the south coast outfit win promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Having enjoyed an excellent season with Burnley, the defender had been tipped to make the jump and join a top-flight side and City were open to a permanent exit. However, no one matched their £15million valuation, allowing a loan deal to be done as the deadline closed in.

There was interest in the England under-21 star from Premier League sides, but former City academy director Wilcox believes a move to St. Mary's will better aide his development.

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"There is no doubt that he wants to play in the Premier League," Wilcox told BBC Radio Solent. "He had Premier League interest and he looked at the teams that were giving him opportunities in the Premier League and he thought that Southampton was a better fit.

"He's got to compete, we have got Jan Bednarek, Jack Stephens and Mason Holgate. Taylor hasn't come here not knowing that he has to fight. He won't be shoehorned in.

"Taylor is a leader of men, I know him - he's got experience and a very mature head on his shoulders. I've been on a journey with him through the academy and he's a great signing for us.

“He's again somebody who is dependable and trustworthy. He's also highly reflective of his own performances and trains like he