Newcastle United were involved in at least some deadline drama despite a lack of incomings.
Indeed, Lloyd Kelly official left Newcastle to join Italian giants Juventus on a loan deal, a move that also includes an obligation to buy if certain criteria is met.
Eddie Howe did not want to lose Kelly at first but the club eventually allowed the defender to go only a few months after joining on a free transfer from Bournemouth.
Newcastle insiders believe the removal of Kelly’s wages will help with PSR and given his lack of regular game time, it hardly weakens Howe’s first-choice starting lineup all too much.
This really could be a great move for all involved. Newcastle bank money for a player not regularly featuring, while Juve get their man and Kelly is afforded the chance to play for one of Europe’s very biggest clubs.
Certainly, it seems as if the Serie A side are happy with their lot.
What Juventus said immediately after signing Lloyd Kelly from Newcastle United
Reflecting on the signing of Kelly, there were some interesting comments from the Italian club themselves.
While the 26-year-old was unable to showcase his talents at Newcastle, Juve would appear to be delighted with his capture.
In fact, they appear to think his ability to play both at left-back and in central defence can really add something to their squad.
A statement on the Juventus official website read: “Kelly is known for his speed, his ability to build up play from the back and his tactical reading of the game. Thanks to his imposing stature at 1.90m tall, he is strong in aerial duels, both in the defensive phase and in dead-ball situations. His dynamism allows him to adapt to different tactical formations, making him a valuable piece to Juventus’ puzzle.
“Welcome to Juventus, Lloyd!”
Eddie Howe unhappy with losing Lloyd Kelly at Newcastle
Howe is unhappy with the fact Newcastle have let Kelly go, although that is only natural.
Very few managers around are exactly going to be delighted about losing a player halfway through an important season without a replacement being lined up.
Still, it’s a move that makes financial sense for Newcastle. Sadly, that has to be taken into account.
It looks as if Newcastle couldn’t afford not to let him go, given his lack of game time.
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