St. Mary's fans are more inclined to Taylor Harwood-Bellis' permanent sale than a rumoured Burnley loan.
It hasn't been even 48 hours since Southampton learned about Burnley's Taylor Harwood-Bellis interest. Obviously, being talked of losing a starter, Saints fans aren't excited but this time they are rather confused.
That's because of Burnley's intriguing interest in the Saints defender now. After all, having given up on the player past their previous promotion win, asking for a loan transfer, after two seasons is not normal.
That's why, it feels like Burnley are trying to benefit from a cut-price loan, at Southampton’s expense. And the Saints should be cautious of the Clarets’ motive.
Saints fans have made their Harwood-Bellis decision
Being already under pressure to cut wage bills ahead of the Championship season, through departures, a loan deal may harm Southampton's interest. Thankfully, the fans Fans are united in demanding a permanent sale for Harwood-Bellis if he is to leave this summer.
Recently, while speaking to the Football League World, fan pundit Martin Sanders put his stance on the defender's rumours, saying: "I saw that the deal today was talking about a potential loan. I don't see it being enough money for us to want to loan him. If he's going to go anywhere, he'd be sold."
Here, some may feel Saints fans are still bothered for a Burnley loan only, given their last St. Mary's humiliation. But, in reality, this take stands true for all clubs in general.
That being said, the idea of Harwood-Bellis staying with the Saints isn't ruled out, completely. While his future depends on Will Still's preference as he gets back to office, the 23-year-old is still highly valued by the fans.
So, Saints fans stand clear on their Harwood-Bellis decision now, either he should stay or leave permanently. There must be no temporary escape route in between.
Still, will that happen as per their expectations? Let's see.