Taylor Harwood-Bellis delighted to sign at Southampton permanently

The Man City academy star arrived on a loan deal which featured an obligation to buy, set at £20million, if Saints got promoted.

Their 1-0 win over Leeds United in the Championship playoff final on Sunday secured their promotion, triggering the deal.

Harwood-Bellis, now a Saints player, has loved his time playing under boss Russell Martin and is "buzzing" to stay at the club.

Speaking to the Daily Echo about the win and his future, he said: "I can't describe it. I can't put it into words.

"Just to know that I am going to be back next season, the deal was already signed, I can't believe it. I am so happy.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis has been a crucial player for Southampton this season (Image: PA)

"This was the aim. There was nothing else on my mind. I had to get promoted because I want to play in the Premier League.

"There is no better manager, coaching staff or set of players who I would rather play in the Premier League with.

"This is a dream. I did not get my Premier League move last season. To come here and have that Premier League contract waiting for me, I can't believe it.

"Being a Premier League player is the dream, and to do it for a team that is not just going up there to survive. This is a Premier League club. The club is massive.

"It's not a case of we are going up just to survive it. That will be the aim, but with the stature of the club - this club is Premier League.

"With the expectations from the fans, there is no way we should have been in the Championship. I am so happy."

He continued: "Having that certainty was the main thing, even just knowing where I am going to live. I have been here for a year already.

"I know the club. I know what is expected. I know the route to training, I know everything. I can't wait to come back for pre-season."