Defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis could be promoted to the senior Manchester City squad after impressing Pep Guardiola during pre-season. Harwood-Bellis has long been considered one of the brightest prospects in Manchester City’s youth ranks, also representing England at every level so far.
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The 17-year-old could be fast-tracked after wowing Guardiola and his coaches on the recent tour of China, catching the eye in run-outs against West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers. The teenager hails from Stockport and is a boyhood City fan – just like midfielder Phil Foden – who has stepped up to the first-team plate during the last 18 months.
Harwood-Bellis already cuts a tall, imposing figure in central defence but it is his composure and ability on the ball which has helped him stand out to City’s coaches. Guardiola is uncertain whether City will be successful in bringing in another centre-back before the transfer deadline, having targeted Leicester City’s Harry Maguire.
Rivals Manchester United appear more prepared to get near the Foxes’ £85m valuation – meaning Guardiola has been taking a closer note of the academy graduates who made the trip to the Far East.
