Fabrizio Romano reports that Southampton have reached out to sign an ‘elite’ star as a replacement for Harwood-Bellis.

Southampton have reportedly made contact with Feyenoord over a potential move for centre-back Anel Ahmedhodzic, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, as uncertainty continues to surround the future of Taylor Harwood-Bellis.

The Saints are understood to be one of several clubs monitoring Ahmedhodzic, who could be available during the current summer transfer window. The Bosnian defender enjoyed an encouraging first campaign with Feyenoord after joining the Dutch club from Sheffield United last summer.

Ahmedhodzic quickly established himself as an important defensive option in Rotterdam and made 36 appearances across all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign. His performances have attracted attention from several clubs, with Southampton now among those exploring his availability.

The timing of the interest is particularly notable because Harwood-Bellis continues to attract attention from elsewhere. Premier League clubs have been monitoring the Southampton captain, while Portuguese giants Benfica have also emerged as serious admirers.

Southampton could therefore be preparing for the possibility of losing one of their most important defenders before the transfer window closes.

Southampton make initial contact for Ahmedhodzic

It remains unclear whether Southampton view Ahmedhodzic as a direct replacement for Harwood-Bellis or whether the club simply wants to strengthen its defensive options by bringing in another experienced centre-back.

However, the fact that initial contact has already been established with Feyenoord indicates that the Saints are considering the possibility of a deal.

Romano reported that Southampton are among the clubs interested in Ahmedhodzic, with the defender potentially available for a move this summer.

The transfer specialist also indicated that Southampton have made an initial approach and that several other clubs are monitoring the player’s situation.

At this stage, however, there is no suggestion that negotiations are advanced or that Southampton are close to agreeing a deal.

The interest is therefore best viewed as preliminary, although Ahmedhodzic’s situation at Feyenoord could make a transfer more realistic.

Harwood-Bellis future creates defensive uncertainty

Southampton’s interest in another centre-back comes shortly after Benfica reportedly made a bid of approximately €20 million for Harwood-Bellis.

The Saints captain was one of the standout performers during Southampton’s promotion push last season and played a major role as the club recovered from a difficult beginning to the campaign.

Losing the 24-year-old would represent a significant blow to Tonda Eckert’s side, particularly with the new Championship season already underway.

Harwood-Bellis has also attracted interest from Premier League clubs, meaning Southampton could face a difficult decision if further offers arrive before the transfer deadline.

Given his importance to the team, it would make sense for the club to identify potential replacements before agreeing to his departure.

That could explain why Ahmedhodzic has now appeared on Southampton’s radar.

Feyenoord situation could open the door

Ahmedhodzic’s current position at Feyenoord could also make a potential transfer easier to complete.

The defender was reportedly left out of Feyenoord’s squad for their opening Eredivisie fixture against Sparta Rotterdam, which could indicate that new manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst does not consider him part of his long-term plans.

If that situation continues, Feyenoord may be more willing to listen to offers for the 27-year-old.

Southampton could therefore have an opportunity to bring in a defender who already understands English football and has extensive experience in the Championship.

However, competition for his signature is expected to be strong, with Southampton not the only club believed to have shown interest.

Romano’s update does not indicate that the Saints are currently leading the race, meaning they may need to act quickly if they decide Ahmedhodzic is the right player for their defensive plans.

Ahmedhodzic could be an ideal Southampton addition

Regardless of whether Harwood-Bellis eventually leaves, Ahmedhodzic could represent an intelligent signing for Southampton.

The Bosnia and Herzegovina international has already demonstrated his ability to perform at Championship level and was an important member of Sheffield United’s promotion-winning squad during the 2022/23 campaign.

His previous experience in the English second tier could be particularly valuable to Southampton as they look to challenge for promotion.

Football analyst Ben Mattinson has previously described Ahmedhodzic as an “elite” box defender, highlighting his ability to defend inside and around his own penalty area.

His statistical record also suggests that he could fit comfortably into Southampton’s style.

During the 2024/25 Championship campaign, Ahmedhodzic made 41 appearances and recorded a passing accuracy of 90 per cent.

He averaged 1.52 tackles and 1.15 interceptions per 90 minutes, while also winning 1.89 aerial duels per 90.

His overall aerial success rate stood at 54.1 per cent.

Although those numbers suggest that Ahmedhodzic is not necessarily the most dominant centre-back in the air, his ability to contribute in possession could make him particularly attractive to Eckert.

Southampton generally prefer to control matches through possession, meaning a defender who is comfortable receiving the ball and progressing play would suit their approach.

Ahmedhodzic’s experience in England would also mean that he should require less adaptation than a defender arriving from another league without previous Championship experience.

A logical move for the Saints?

If Feyenoord are genuinely prepared to move Ahmedhodzic on, Southampton could have identified an opportunity to strengthen their squad without needing to spend an excessive amount.

His potential availability, combined with his Championship experience and ability to operate comfortably with the ball, makes him an appealing option.

The situation surrounding Harwood-Bellis will ultimately determine how important the move becomes.

If the Southampton captain remains at St Mary’s, Ahmedhodzic could provide valuable competition and defensive depth. If Harwood-Bellis departs, however, the Bosnian could become an even more important target.

For now, Southampton have only made preliminary contact, and there is still considerable work to do before a deal could become realistic.

Nevertheless, with several clubs reportedly interested and Ahmedhodzic potentially surplus to requirements at Feyenoord, the Saints may have found a defender who fits both their tactical needs and their current transfer situation.