Newcastle United Are Confident About Recruiting This Bournemouth Defender: Good Option For Howe? | OneFootball

In a recent report, i News claimed that Newcastle United are confident about recruiting Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly this summer. It has been revealed that the Magpies are eager to seal a move to bring the English centre-back to Tyneside later this year.

The 25-year-old has put in a run of solid performances for Bournemouth on the defensive end of the pitch. Kelly has played in 24 matches for the Cherries this season, registering one goal and picking up one assist across various competitions.

The English sensation has been a solid performer inside his half based on his average of 1.1 tackles, 0.6 interceptions and 2.7 clearances per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has even been accurate with his ball distribution from the back based on his pass success rate of 77.8% in the English first division (stats via whoscored).

Kelly’s current contract at the Vitality Stadium will expire this summer. Hence, Newcastle could potentially sign him on a free transfer at the end of this campaign.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 25: Lloyd Kelly of AFC Bournemouth runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and AFC Bournemouth at Bramall Lane on November 25, 2023 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Is Kelly A Good Option For Newcastle United?

Kelly loves a tackle and can time his challenges well to make some timely interceptions for his team on the defensive end of the field. He doesn’t mind clearing his lines when the opposition are on the offensive and excels at playing his way out from inside his half.

Standing at 1.90m, the English sensation can win a few 50-50 duels for his team in the air. He has already proven his worth as a capable defender in the Premier League and could serve as a valuable player in Newcastle boss Eddie Howe’s match-day squad next season.

Kelly would inject more bite and steel into the Tyneside club‘s backline. He might even help the Magpies challenge across all fronts over the next few years. At 25, the best is yet to come from the Bournemouth defensive ace as long as he continues to improve with each year.

Kelly will become a free agent soon when his contract expires at the end of this campaign. Thus, he would be a good, cost-effective option for the Magpies to consider in the upcoming transfer window. Plus, Howe could be the ideal man to unlock the best out of the player at St. James’ Park.