An agent has now shared how Newcastle won race to sign ‘standout’ player this summer

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It was not the most productive of transfer windows for Newcastle United.

Indeed, their summer window was in fact so underwhelming that club legend Alan Shearer even suggested owners PIF had “failed” manager Eddie Howe.

Quite what the Newcastle United boss can do with a squad not significantly strengthened remains to be seen, albeit it does remain one of the most expensive collection of players in the world.

The fallout from the transfer window has continued, too. Sporting director Paul Mitchell is said to have upset people with his claim that the club’s existing structure was not fit for purpose.

There is also said to be an acceptance from within St James’ Park that the data-led aspects of their recruitment policy have not been developed enough.

They did manage to make some signings, however.

It is hoped that Will Osula will be able to develop nicely under Howe, while Lloyd Kelly has already been hailed as a “standout” by the Magpies head coach.

Now, some further insight into the Kelly deal has emerged.

Agent reveals how Newcastle won the race to sign Lloyd Kelly

Italian football agent Andrea Pellegatti has now claimed that a host of Serie A clubs were keen on Kelly, who was an attractive prospect this summer given his expiring contract at Bournemouth and versatility across the backline.

Still, Howe’s relationship with the defender built from their time together on the south coast is what seemingly swung it for the Toon.

“Kelly had several Italian teams interested,” he told Radio Sportiva. “Expiring [contract], a left-footed centre-back in the prime of his career capable of playing left-back.

“Surely the decisive aspect was the fact that the coach – Howe – had already trained him. He was his mentor at Bournemouth.”

Newcastle are really excited by Lloyd Kelly

Kelly may not be the most glamorous of names but does provide Premier League-ready experience at both left-back and in central defence.

Those behind the scenes are said to be confident Howe can bring him on as a player too, which is certainly exciting.

Kelly may yet prove to be a masterstroke addition.