26-Years-Old Liverpool Target Rejects The Reds For Juventus: A Setback For Arne Slot? | OneFootball

Liverpool are right now focused on finding a proper replacement for Andy Robertson at left-back and Virgil van Dijk at centre-back. Both of these players have been integral parts of the Liverpool team and have been performing at their best consistently. The club have looked into the transfer market in the summer transfer window and also in the ongoing winter transfer window to find the best options.

The Reds have been interested in Lloyd Kelly for a long time and wanted to sign the player. Fabrizio Romano has reported that the player has agreed on a deal to leave Newcastle United for Juventus. So, the Reds have suffered a huge setback as they wanted to bring Kelly as a backup and a long-term replacement to Van Dijk.

Lloyd Kelly stands out for his versatility, being able to play as a left-back or centre-back, which is exactly what Liverpool needed. His composure on the ball, defensive solidity, and leadership skills on the pitch make him a valuable asset.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 25: Lloyd Kelly of Newcastle United fouls Jarrod Bowen of West Ham United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and West Ham United FC at St James’ Park on November 25, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

The Reds were interested in him as they wanted to bolster their defense with a young, adaptable player who can challenge for a starting spot or provide crucial depth, especially with his contract situation making him a cost-effective option.

Why is it a setback for the Reds?

Kelly has conceded six goals and kept 2 clean sheets in 10 matches in the Premier League 2024/2025 season. That means when Kelly is on the pitch, his team conceded a goal every 50 minutes. Moreover, he’s made 1.52 tackles and 0.30 interceptions for every 90 minutes he was on the pitch. Kelly is also racking up about 4.24 clearances at the same time. He has appeared in 10 matches this season in the Premier League, playing a total of 300 minutes.

So, it is definitely a setback for the club given that they lost a defender who was 26-years-old and could have gone on to replace Virgil van Dijk for a long time. The signing was a cost-effective option as well, given that van Dijk has entered the final six months of his contract with the Reds.