2022 has been a stark reminder of Taylor Harwood-Bellis’ bags of natural talent.
Joining Stoke City on loan last January for the second half of the season, the Manchester City academy graduate emerged as a mainstay in defence for the Championship outfit.
Starting in all 21 possible games in the second tier of English football, it is clear to see the instant impact made by the 20-year old since being signed on a temporary basis by the Potters.
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Aside from showcasing his flair for the art of defending, another extremely impressive aspect about Taylor Harwood-Bellis was how he proved several sceptics wrong after a largely unsuccessful loan spell at RSC Anderlecht.
Despite turning heads with his displays upon a return to familiar settings, it is unlikely that the highly-rated prospect is headed for a recall to his parent club anytime soon.
It is key to mention that the England Under-21 international’s four senior appearances during Pep Guardiola’s reign indicate that he is clearly considered a serious talent within the club.
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However, it may be advisable for the starlet to gain some much-needed experience away from East Manchester next term to further aid his development.
With the Premier League champions needing no reminding on how to get the best out of their unearthed gems, the youngster is set for another spell out on loan in the Championship.
As per a new report by Football Insider, Burnley are now in ‘advanced talks’ to sign Taylor Harwood-Bellis on a season-long loan.
Further details suggest that Manchester City legend and now the newly-appointed Clarets boss Vincent Kompany considers the Englishman as a ‘priority signing’, considering his experience of managing the young defender last season and his successful spell in the Championship during the second-half of the campaign.
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Additionally, Taylor Harwood-Bellis is stated to have his sights set on reuniting with the Belgian coach, despite several teams having enquired about securing his loan signing next term.
As a result, it has been reported that Burnley are ‘close’ to finalising a move for the prodigious centre-half, and it comes as no surprise to understand that the Championship side have been so insistent on signing the English defender.
With James Tarkowski looking dead set to join last season's Premier League survivors Everton and Ben Mee’s recent exit, the club were in desperate need for defensive reinforcements, which prompted the move for the Manchester City wonderkid.
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While some may be sceptical about Harwood-Bellis’ success under Vincent Kompany due to their time at Anderlecht, the legendary Manchester City captain’s well-defined style of play and ambitious project could do wonders for the youngster’s development.
Considering the Burnley manager’s experience as an elite defender, as well as his renowned tactical acumen, Taylor Harwood-Bellis could be in for a footballing education in Lancashire next season.
Elsewhere, Manchester City are continuing to weigh up their options in regards to other rising youth talent coming through the City Football Academy ranks.
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The likes of Romeo Lavia, James McAtee, and Liam Delap all face relatively uncertain futures, and some of the aforementioned trio may find themselves going head to head with Taylor Harwood-Bellis in the Championship next season.
Topics: Manchester City, Manchester City Transfer News & Rumours, Premier League, Transfers, Football, Burnley, Vincent Kompany, EFL Championship
Srinivas Sadhanand