Newcastle Secures Lloyd Kelly on Free Transfer Following Departure from Bournemouth

Lloyd Kelly, aged 25, departed from Bournemouth at the conclusion of the season following the expiration of his contract.

Newcastle United is set to finalize the free transfer acquisition of former Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly, marking their first breakthrough in a crucial window.

While they missed out on signing Fulham's Tosin Adarabioyo, who opted for Chelsea, securing Kelly's signature represents a significant boost for manager Eddie Howe.

Having originally signed Kelly for Bournemouth from Bristol City for £13 million in 2017, Howe sees the 25-year-old as excellent value, especially as a free agent. The defender is poised to sign a five-year deal with the club.

Negotiations have been ongoing for several weeks, with Kelly receiving other offers but ultimately favoring Newcastle due to his desire to reunite with Howe.

According to sources, a verbal agreement has been reached between Kelly, his representatives, and the club, making him Newcastle's first summer signing once the transfer window officially opens.

Kelly's versatility, capable of playing as a left-sided center-back or left-back, adds depth to Newcastle's defense, particularly with Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles sidelined until the end of 2024.

Despite past injury setbacks, Kelly's prime years are ahead of him, and his familiarity with Howe's style should facilitate a smooth transition into the team.

With Kelly secured, Newcastle will redirect their focus towards recruiting a right winger, right-sided center-back, and striker. However, the club acknowledges the challenge of acquiring their targets, many of whom may be costly and reluctant to leave their current clubs.

Following last season's injury crisis, which exposed squad depth issues, Newcastle's hierarchy is keen to bolster Howe's options, aiming to compete for a top-six finish next season.

Player sales are also on the agenda, with exciting young winger Yanubua Minteh attracting interest from multiple suitors. Additionally, striker Callum Wilson could be sold, with Everton's Dominic Calvert-Lewin mooted as a potential replacement.

Newcastle has inquired about Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford but is yet to meet the player's valuation with a bid.

Although discussions with Burnley are ongoing, any deal is unlikely to materialize before July due to financial constraints. The club must address profit and sustainability concerns and raise funds through player sales by the end of June.

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