Newcastle United have reportedly turned down an offer from Fenerbahce for Lloyd Kelly, with Eddie Howe keen to keep the defender.
According to Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, Fenerbahce may have seen an offer turned down for Lloyd Kelly. The defender has been the subject of interest from Jose Mourinho’s side. However, Eddie Howe has no intention of letting the player leave only six months after Newcastle United signed him on a free transfer from Bournemouth.
Newcastle United might be anticipating a few departures in this month’s window, but Lloyd Kelly is not part of that group. Matt Targett is likely to leave amid MLS links, while Miguel Almiron is also expected to follow him back to the USA as the pair’s time at Tyneside is coming to an end.
There are some links with an exit for 26-year-old 2024 signing Lloyd Kelly, with Fenerbahce keen to sign him. The Turkish giants have reportedly had a bid turned down by Newcastle United, as Eddie Howe wants to keep hold of the defender.
Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho has been keen to bring in a new defender this month and had set sights on Diego Carlos. Aston Villa are open to selling the defender, although the price point might be an issue for the Turkish giants, as well as interest from rivals Galatasaray.
Kelly seems like an alternative target for Mourinho, although any deal might seem difficult this month. Moreover, the Magpies are also keen to recruit a new centre-back this month to add defensive depth, although Howe is intent on keeping the 26-year-old versatile defender.
Newcastle United looking for a new defender
Howe will have been pleased to have Sven Botman back into the mix following a long-term knee injury, but even with the Dutchman, the team still lacks the numbers at the back. With Targett leaving, Newcastle United probably view Kelly as a viable cover for Lewis Hall at left-back as well as a centre-back if needed.
The Magpies are also not expected to chase Loic Bade this month after complications in the race, meaning they might not end up bringing in a new defender. Hence, keeping Kelly seems imperative, as the 26-year-old 2024 signing will continue to be with the squad despite his lack of minutes so far this season.
