Newcastle United has signed defender Lloyd Kelly permanently for no transfer fee. He will be working again with manager Eddie Howe and has signed a long-term deal, which is a five-year contract with an option to extend for an additional year.
| Details | Information |
| Transfer Type | Free Transfer |
| Contract Length | 5 years (with option for an additional year) |
| Previous Club | AFC Bournemouth |
| Position | Defender (Left-back & Center-back) |
| Reason for Joining | Bolster Newcastle’s defense & Reunion with manager Eddie Howe |
The 25-year-old has come to St. James’ Park to strengthen Newcastle’s defense for the new season, especially because key players Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are injured. Kelly can play well as both a left-back and a center-back, which made Newcastle interested in him.
He likely decided to join because he wanted to work with Howe again. Howe had brought him to Bournemouth from Bristol City in 2019. This shows a strong bond between the player and the manager, making it easier for Kelly to adjust to the new team.
Kelly joined Newcastle after they couldn’t sign defender Tosin Adarabioyo, who chose Chelsea instead. Newcastle sees Kelly as an important player who will add depth and flexibility to their defense for the upcoming season.
The transfer fits Newcastle’s plan to make their team stronger while following Premier League financial rules. Since Kelly didn’t cost a transfer fee, this move is smart and saves money, allowing them to spend on other players.
Newcastle is still busy in the transfer market, negotiating for other important positions. They are talking to Burnley about signing goalkeeper James Trafford. The club is also trying to sell players they don’t need and is working on deals like Ryan Fraser possibly moving to Southampton.
Lloyd Kelly joining Newcastle United is an important move for the new season. He strengthens their defense and will work again with Eddie Howe, which could have a positive effect on the team’s performance.