Juventus have reportedly approached Newcastle United for Lloyd Kelly’s signature, with the defender seemingly available for the move.
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Lloyd Kelly is a target for Juventus this month. The Turin club have made an approach to test Newcastle United’s resolve. Eddie Howe likes the defender, although the Magpies might be tempted to cash in should an offer around their valuation arrive.
Lloyd Kelly was supposed to make himself essential at Newcastle United when he left Bournemouth on a Bosman deal to play under Eddie Howe. Instead, the Magpies’ boss has barely used him, as the left-sided defender has made only four starts in the Premier League this season.
Howe has preferred Dan Burn in the left-centre-back role, while Lewis Hall has made the left-back spot his own, thus leaving Kelly as a regular option off the bench. There is a clear argument for Newcastle United to consider selling the defender, although the manager does view him as an essential part of his defensive depth.
However, a viable offer could convince the Magpies, with the club already rejecting an approach from Fenerbahce. Now, Juventus have entered the frame for Kelly as they are also chasing Fikayo Tomori, although only one defender would potentially arrive this month.
Tomori’s arrival will depend on AC Milan’s move for Kyle Walker, and Kelly might be seen as an alternative to his fellow English defender. The report states that Juventus have made an approach and is willing to offer €12-13 million, which may fall short given that Fenerbahce’s offer was slightly higher.
Newcastle United want €18-20 million
Newcastle United sense an opportunity in this window to maximise their profits, and Kelly’s potential sale does help them on the business side of the game. As Juventus are willing to offer €12-13 million, the Magpies are seeking €18-20 million to sell the defender.
Whether that money suits Juventus remains to be seen, but it might be well within range for a talented defender like Kelly. In the coming days, the defender’s future will be evident as he will know whether Juventus are close to signing Tomori or if they will make him their priority defensive signing this month.
