Bournemouth promotion could derail Newcastle’s Lloyd Kelly transfer bid

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Newcastle United suffered a transfer blow last night in their bid to sign Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth.

The defender was linked with the Magpies going into January, but a deal failed to materialise. However, Kelly has continued to be linked with joining Eddie Howe’s side.

That’s no surprise given how fond Howe is of the 23-year-old. He was the one who brought Kelly to Bournemouth in the first place.

While Howe is no longer with the Cherries, Kelly has thrived in his absence. He’s gone from injury ridden left-back to captain fantastic at the heart of defence.

And his biggest achievement happened last night, and it’s an achievement that could end Newcastle’s hopes of signing him.

Newcastle target Lloyd Kelly seals Premier League return

Scott Parker’s side secured promotion to the top flight last night with a 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest.

It was a huge game with so much on the line. Had the result gone the other way it would be Forest in pole position to go up.

But Bournemouth got the job done, and Kelly played a key role in victory. Forest were piling on the pressure late on, but Kelly produced an astounding block to deny Steve Cooper’s side from a set piece in injury time.

It was celebrated like a goal. Then the real celebrations started when the referee blew for full time.

The result secured Bournemouth’s place back in the Premier League, which may end Newcastle’s pursuit of Kelly.

It’s difficult to see him leaving now. Why would Bournemouth sell one of their star players and captain? Of course, money talks, but a move for Kelly now feels incredibly unlikely.

Promotion will likely mean disappointment for Newcastle in the transfer window, but it has brought joy for two players associated with the club.

Firstly, manager Parker is a former Toon captain. He’ll no doubt be looking forward to returning to St James’ Park next season.

Secondly, their squad includes Newcastle loanee Freddie Woodman. The goalkeeper moved to the south coast in January, but has barely featured.

The loan move hasn’t gone to plan at all, even if it is ending in promotion.