Liverpool and Newcastle United are reportedly among the clubs interested in the services of Lloyd Kelly in January.
A recent report from Daily Mail has offered an update on Newcastle United’s transfer policy. The Premier League outfit has recently hired new agencies to help them with their approach in the transfer market. In the meantime, coach Eddie Howe has identified a few defensive options he is willing to pursue.
Lloyd Kelly has emerged as one of the options linked with a move to Newcastle United next month. But the report suggests that the Magpies are set to face stiff competition from Liverpool in the pursuit of the Bournemouth defender.
Formerly of Bristol City, Kelly has been one of Bournemouth’s star performers over the past 18 months. While he only played a small role in the club’s relegation campaign in the 2019/20 season, the defender has emerged as a vital cog in the defence in the Championship, notably making 36 league appearances last season.
A centre-back by trade, Kelly has made a solid impression with his imposing presence at the back, coupled with his defensive discipline. The 23-year-old also offers a lot of versatility, as he can operate as a left-back as well. His qualities made him a useful defensive outlet in the Championship last season.
And it appears the English tactician is now looking for a reunion at Newcastle United, who want to make him a part of his defensive reinforcements next season. The Magpies are indeed looking for under-the-radar players in January that can not only help them stave off relegation but also stay on to help them recover in the Championship, in case they do get relegated.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are simply looking for additional cover in defence amid Joe Gomez’s uncertain future at the club. The Englishman has struggled with injuries and has been linked with a January move to Aston Villa.
As such, Lloyd Kelly could be a useful addition to the team, especially if they also end up losing Nathaniel Phillips. The 24-year-old has no future at Liverpool and is likely to move on as well, amid interest from West Ham United.
Incidentally, the Hammers are also expected to rival Liverpool and Newcastle United in the race to sign Kelly in January. But given the player’s relationship with Eddie Howe, the Magpies may have the upper hand in this interesting chase.
