Southampton now appear to be facing a potential stand-off with Benfica over Taylor Harwood-Bellis. The Portuguese club remain in talks for the defender, but have set a clear limit. They currently won’t go beyond €20m (£17.3m). That comes from Thursday’s print edition of A Bola, who have confirmed the negotiations through their own information. It adds an important detail to what has been reported over the past couple of days. Benfica want Harwood-Bellis, but they aren’t prepared to keep increasing their offer to get him. Benfica looking for another way to convince Southampton Taylor Harwood-Bellis is considered a difficult target in Lisbon, partly because of Southampton’s investment in him. The Saints paid Manchester City €23.5m (£20.3m) for the centre-back in 2024. Benfica therefore know their current limit would leave Southampton taking a loss. A Bola says there is still “some room” to find a formula which could convince the English club. The newspaper doesn’t explain what that formula could involve, so there is no indication yet of how Benfica intend to bridge the gap. What is clear is their position on the overall figure. They are prepared to reach €20m (£17.3m), but aren’t currently willing to go higher. It is also worth stressing that António Silva’s €30m sale or any recent departure does not automatically give Benfica money to reinvest. The club’s financial problems mean sales are also needed to cover existing debts, support their accounts and reduce a significant hole in the balance sheet. It also takes some shine off Record’s optimism that the transfer could be completed for around that amount. Benfica counting on Harwood-Bellis Taylor Harwood-Bellis has the approval of both Marco Silva and Benfica’s management. A Bola says the Portuguese side have moved decisively for him. However, they also have alternative targets identified in case Southampton cannot be convinced. There is another element Benfica hope will work in their favour. According to the newspaper, they will count on Harwood-Bellis’ desire to make the move as they try to reach an agreement with Southampton. That could become important if the Saints maintain a valuation above Benfica’s limit. There is some history which suggests Southampton won’t simply give in. A Bola reveals West Ham offered €14m (£12.1m) for Harwood-Bellis in January. Southampton turned that proposal down. West Ham, Hull City and Coventry City have all been linked with the defender again this summer. All three remain possible destinations for the Saints’ man. For Benfica, though, the situation is now quite clearly defined. Talks with Southampton are ongoing and Harwood-Bellis is wanted by Marco Silva. They have also decided, at least for now, where their financial limit sits. With Southampton considered unlikely to accept €20m (£17.3m), Benfica need to find another formula to make that figure work. Otherwise, their identified alternatives could soon become relevant. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 4th in Championship, 80 pts, 22W-14D-10L from 46 games, recent form WDWDD. Recent form (last 5): 3W-2D-0L (WWDDW, most recent first); on a 2-game winning run. Next fixture: vs Bolton (at home, 2026-10-17).