Newcastle United are keeping an eye on Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly, according to a report from Sunday Mirror. The Magpies are already considering their moves for the summer transfer window, and Kelly is on their radar.
Newcastle United had an interesting January transfer window. This was their first transfer window since the huge takeover by Saudi owners. The Magpies signed five players last month; Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett, and Dan Burn.
Kelly was linked with a move to the St. James’ Park in January, with Eddie Howe being keen on the player. But the deal did not materialize and Newcastle signed Dan Burn instead.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe knows the Bournemouth defender well from their time together at Bournemouth. Howe signed Lloyd Kelly from Bristol City back in July of 2019. He was Kelly’s manager until August 2020 as Howe parted with the club.
The youngster cemented his place in the Bournemouth starting line-up under Eddie Howe. He became a regular on the team sheet in his second season at the club. At just 23 years of age, he is currently the captain of the side.
Kelly has been instrumental for Bournemouth this season in their race for Premier League promotion. He was involved in 24 games for the Cherries this season and kept a clean sheet in 13 of them. He also scored one goal this season which came in their 3-0 win against Huddersfield (Transfermarkt).
Will Lloyd Kelly move to Newcastle United next summer?
There are various factors at play that will decide the English centre-back’s move to Newcastle United. Newcastle United are in the relegation battle, and it will be key for them to retain their top-flight status to have a better chance of signing Kelly.
The Magpies are currently 17th on the table, 2 points above the drop zone. They are also unbeaten in their last four games and are starting to gain momentum. The new manager and January signings will all help them stay afloat this season.
At the same time, Bournemouth are pushing for a Premier League promotion. It will help their chances to retain the services of the English defender next season if they get promoted.
Bournemouth are currently 3rd on the table, just one point behind Blackburn Rovers in the automatic promotion spot. They also hold two games in hand over Blackburn Rovers. The Cherries have also enjoyed a busy transfer window where they brought in seven new players.
There is a chance of both the teams playing in the Premier League next season, in which case, Kelly will have a decision to make. Newcastle’s recent take-over has certainly raised some eyebrows. They are currently a hot destination for players looking to step up their careers. An offer from the Magpies will be tempting for Lloyd Kelly.
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