Manchester City has officially confirmed that center-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis has joined Southampton during this summer transfer window. 

Harwood-Bellis played for Southampton last season on loan from Manchester City, with a clause that obligated the St Mary’s club to buy him permanently if they were promoted to the Premier League.

After defeating Leeds United in the promotion play-off final, Southampton has now officially activated the £20 million buyout clause for the English star from the Citizens.

Upon signing the contract, the 22-year-old center-back couldn’t contain his happiness. 

“I had a fantastic season here, so I am very happy to officially become a Southampton player,” Harwood-Bellis said. “The feeling of contributing to the club’s promotion to the Premier League is indescribable. I have learned a lot here and gradually improved my football skills. It is an honor to contribute to Southampton, and I can’t wait to team up with my fellow players.”

In recent years, Southampton has become a destination for many young talents from Manchester City’s academy, especially after appointing former Citizens scouts Joe Shields and Jason Wilcox to the club’s management team.

Several notable players, including Gavin Bazunu, Romeo Lavia, Samuel Edozie, Juan Larios, Shea Charles, and Josh McNamara, have made their way from Manchester City to St Mary’s.

Notably, Lavia’s move to Chelsea last summer brought Southampton a substantial £58 million.