SAINTS are actively pursuing a loan move for Manchester City defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis, the Daily Echo understands.

A move for Harwood-Bellis progressed on Wednesday evening and there is hope a deal could be concluded late on Thursday. 

The 21 year old played a key role for Burnley last season as they were promoted back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Harwood-Bellis played 2,888 minutes across 35 appearances on loan at Vincent Kompany's Championship topping Clarets last season.

He also captained England to under-21 European Championship glory this summer in Georgia and Romania.

The Man City academy graduate will be familiar with Saints director of football Jason Wilcox, who is heading up transfer recruitment this summer, from his time as City's academy director.

Harwood-Bellis is comfortable with the ball at his feet, having ranked third in the Championship last season for passes attempted per 90 minutes with 73.51.

Should a loan deal be struck the former Anderlecht loanee would become the second player to join for Saints' first team from the Premier League champions this summer after Shea Charles.

Russell Martin's side are currently low on numbers at centre-back following Jack Stephens' calf injury and Lyanco's loan transfer to Al-Gharafa.

The youngster would also become the fourth player to join on loan after fellow defender Mason Holgate, Flynn Downes and Ryan Fraser.