Axel Tuanzebe joins Burnley as a free agent, which must end their interest in re-signing Taylor Harwood-Bellis.
Admit it or not, despite Harwood-Bellis' firm verdict on his future, all of us Saints fans have been living with some fear still. And that makes sense, given the number of destinations he has been linked to so far this summer.
But more than anyone else, the St. Mary's faithful have been cautioning a Burnley swoop, given their long-held interest in Harwood-Bellis.
Thankfully, still, after a period of unpredictability, Southampton can relax for the defender. That's because of Burnley's recent transfer signing that feels the conclusion of their Harwood-Bellis interest, at least for a year.
As communicated by Burnley's official site, the Clarets have just completed Axel Tuanzebe's signing as a free agent. Needless to say, having added another defender to their catalogue, Burnley might be over Harwood-Bellis now.
Tuanzebe's move helps Southampton on his rival academy graduate
Honestly, looking at Tuanzebe's profile, some Saints fans might be intrigued as to what made Burnley go in for the 27-year-old. However, the St. Mary's is to thank the full-back's Man United academy graduate tag that has just saved them from losing a star defender.
Well, putting in perspective, it's been a former Red Devils talent who has saved Southampton from the exit of an ex-Man City prodigy.
What's intriguing further? It's happened on the back of a season where Man United icons sided with their rivals Cityzens for a Southampton thrashing. Like it or not, turns and twists like these can happen only at St. Mary's, with the Saints only.
Anyways, for now, Southampton, this Burnley call has fallen into a huge advantage for them. This way, not only do they get relieved on a crucial transfer move, but now have the opportunity to embrace focus on other summer transfers.
Interestingly, with Harwood-Bellis' confirmed stay, Southampton have had another starter set for the next season. Hopefully, they fill in the missing pieces soon, as the Saints prepare for a promotion push.