Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly considering a move for Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly before the transfer window slams shut.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham are now “considering” making a move for Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly. But a deal is “not easy” to complete before Friday’s transfer deadline.
Kelly joined the Cherries from Bristol City for a fee in the region of £12 million in 2019. Since then, he has racked up 119 appearances for the South Coast outfit and has captained them on numerous occasions in the Championship. His performances have somewhat gone under the radar since the Cherries promotion. But he remains an integral part of Andoni Iraola’s side.
Although Bournemouth would be reluctant to do business for their key member this late in the summer transfer window, the 24-year-old will be out of contract next year, which could make him a pretty appealing proposition for potential suitors such as Spurs.
This seems like the kind of signing Ange Postecoglou would go for as cover for Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero. A young, left-footed centre-back with Premier League experience and a decent recovery pace, he will likely be content to sit on the bench and wait for his chance in the starting lineup. He is also homegrown and can also operate as a left-back.
EXCL: Tottenham considering possible move for Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth in last 24h 🚨⚪️ #THFC
No formal bid/concrete yet as depends on outgoings, Spurs need players to leave.
Bournemouth would need to replace Kelly, not easy; also Eric Dier could be offered as part of deal. pic.twitter.com/3LfELiOMqP
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 31, 2023
As such, the Lilywhites have not yet lodged an official offer or made a concrete approach for Kelly at this stage, while Bournemouth would want to have a chance to replace their defender. Any move from Tottenham will hinge on fringe defenders leaving the North London outfit first, with the likes of Eric Dier, Davinson Sanchez, and Japhet Tanganga all listed and linked with moves away from the club.
Tottenham have already loaned out Djed Spence and Joe Rodon, both joining Leeds United, while Sergio Reguilon is currently undergoing a medical ahead of a loan move to Manchester United.
Romano also claims England international Eric Dier could even be included to sweeten a possible offer. However, it is unclear whether Spurs would loan him out to Bournemouth or offer him as part of a swap deal since his current contract expires next summer.