Newcastle United are likely to bolster their ranks further as they look to finish the 2023/24 campaign on a high note.
The Magpies haven’t quite reached the heights of last season, but with just three Premier League games left, they’re still in the Europa League picture.
Newcastle have won four of their last five league games, while fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur have lost their last four in a row.
Whatever happens, the Magpies will be eager to increase their strength in depth after a season which tested their squad to the limit.
At the same time, Newcastle will have to be mindful of FFP constraints, so they’re likely to look at the free agent market.
Now, according to Footmercato, the Magpies have struck a deal with one of the Premier League’s best talents whose contract runs out this year.
The French outlet claims that Newcastle have reached agreement with Bournemouth’s Lloyd Kelly over a move to St James’ Park in the summer.
Meanwhile, journalist Santi Aouna wrote on X: “Newcastle are set to sign Lloyd Kelly as free agent! Verbal agreement in place between parties.
“The 25 y/o center back will leave Bournemouth at the end of the season to join the Magpies.”
Lloyd Kelly would be a top signing for Newcastle
Kelly has been superb for Bournemouth since his £13million move from Bristol City in the summer of 2019.
The 25-year-old has made 139 appearances for the Cherries, including 52 in the Premier League. He also played a big part in getting them back into the top flight in 2021/22.
Several years ago, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe – then at Bournemouth – said Kelly was an “outstanding” footballer who has “everything he needs to be a top, top player“.
Let’s hope the Footmercato report is accurate, because Kelly would be an outstanding signing for the Magpies.
Newcastle have also been heavily linked with Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo, and if all goes well, they could bring two solid Premier League defenders in their prime to Tyneside – for free.
