Newcastle United opted not to strengthen the centre of their defence during the summer transfer window.
Despite links with the likes of Joachim Andersen and Harry Maguire, Newcastle went without a new addition there.
So typically, Sven Botman suffered a reasonably long-term injury.
While Jamaal Lascelles has stepped up in his absence and both Emil Krafth and Paul Dummett have impressed in the Carabao Cup, there are questions as to whether or not any of those options are particularly long-term solutions.
With that in mind, investment there could be a wise idea.
Indeed, Bournemouth’s Lloyd Kelly was linked this summer and there has now been a fresh update.
Newcastle transfer news: Bournemouth expect Lloyd Kelly interest
According to the Evening Standard, the Cherries are expecting interest in their defender in January.
Tottenham are reportedly keen on a move for the 25-year-old as they look to strengthen in the New Year sales.
For their part, Bournemouth could be braced to lose Kelly, who Eddie Howe convinced the club to spend £13m on in 2019 and expect interest in him.
The player will be out of contract in the summer and, as a result, could be available for a cut-price fee.
Lloyd Kelly: Logical Newcastle transfer target
Hailed as “incredible” for his resolute defensive performances during Bournemouth’s successful relegation fight by former manager Gary O’Neil last season, Kelly is a logical target for Newcastle.
Clearly rated by Howe given his move to the south coast in the first place, the 25-year-old is able to operate at both left-back and in central defence.
Potentially available reasonably cheaply given his dwindling contractual status too, a move could be a wise way to bolster defensive options at a time when FFP constraints still loom.
A left-footed option too, it could be a nice way to bring more balance on that front into the squad.
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