Tonda Eckert addresses Benfica interest in Taylor Harwood-Bellis | OneFootball

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert says links between Benfica and Taylor Harwood-Bellis are to be expected, and that the 24-year-old has looked unchanged in training before the Championship opener at Watford.

According to Glorioso 1904, Eckert told his pre-match press conference that transfer windows bring periods of uncertainty, not only for Harwood-Bellis, and last season’s standout displays from several players naturally draw interest.

The German added that names will surface in the media over the coming weeks, but he views his squad as focused. He said a morning meeting set the tone for preparation and training suggested they are fit and ready to play.

Harwood-Bellis came through Manchester City’s academy and made eight senior appearances, including one in the Champions League, before departing in winter 2021 for loans at Blackburn Rovers, Anderlecht, Stoke City, Burnley and Southampton, where he established himself.

Last season for Southampton, the centre-back, valued at 20 million euros, played 48 times, 43 in the Championship, four in the FA Cup and one in the League Cup, totalling 4,323 minutes with seven goals and two assists.

Source: Glorioso 1904

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