Newcastle United have reached a verbal agreement with Bournemouth centre-back Lloyd Kelly over a free transfer.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle United are keen on reinforcing their defence in the upcoming transfer window and they are closing on their first signing of the summer. The Magpies have reached a verbal agreement with Lloyd Kelly regarding a move.
After coming up the ranks and making a name for himself at Bristol City, Kelly made the move to Bournemouth in the summer of 2019. Over the years, he has been an integral part of their first team setup. While he has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons, he has been a consistent performer whenever available.
However, he won’t be around next season as he is all set to leave the club as a free agent with a contract running out. The 25-year-old seeks a new challenge away from Bournemouth and there has been no shortage of interest in him.
Kelly is an experienced Premier League defender who has proved himself over the years and with him available, multiple top clubs in the country were keen on acquiring his services. But, it seems Newcastle have won the race for his services as they have a verbal agreement in place with the former Bristol star.
Newcastle closing in on the first signing of the summer
The Magpies suffered two late blows during the 2023/24 season as Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles both picked up a long-term injury. The duo might not return in time for the start of next season and Eddie Howe is keen on ensuring he has the needed depth.
With Kelly available for free amidst their financial concerns, Newcastle didn’t want to miss out on the opportunity. They were working hard to convince him about their project amidst interest from other clubs and have managed to strike a deal.
They now have a verbal agreement in place for Kelly’s move to the club as a free agent. The player is expected to pen down a deal that will run until the summer of 2028. He will soon undergo his medical as a Newcastle player following which there will be an official confirmation of the move.
