Newcastle United rejected an approach for defender Lloyd Kelly on Tuesday.
It came as a big surprise to many that Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce wanted to sign the 25-year-old. Kelly only joined Newcastle in the summer, so his time on Tyneside would’ve been short-lived despite signing a five-year deal.
Newcastle rejected Fenerbahce’s approach for Kelly with reports suggesting the offer was nowhere near Eddie Howe’s valuation of the player.
Profit and Sustainability Rules mean Newcastle where they must sell before buying. Kelly could leave the club in January, but only if the price is right.
After news broke that the bid was rejected, Newcastle fans believed Paul Mitchell should “cash in” on Kelly. His arrival in the summer didn’t come with a transfer fee, so Newcastle would receive pure profit from the sale.
Despite the financial gain, Howe doesn’t want to weaken his Newcastle squad as they push to qualify for European football.
With Kelly moving further down the pecking order, Howe has gone on record about Kelly’s feelings towards a move.
Lloyd Kelly isn’t pushing for Newcastle exit
Eddie Howe took his pre-match press conference on Friday ahead of Newcastle’s game against Bournemouth in the Premier League which was streamed on Newcastle’s website.
During the presser, Howe was asked about the bid for Kelly and what the defender’s mindset is like with a potential move in sight.
“Lloyd has not talked to me about leaving the football club,” he said.
“I think he’s only just joined and I think there’s an understanding from his perspective that he’s got to earn the right to play and prove that he deserves to play ahead of other players.
“So there’s been absolutely no issue. He’s been great to work with and I knew he would be. He’s waiting for his opportunities, so there’s no issue with Lloyd at all.
“Whatever rumours you’re hearing are likely from Fenerbahce and not from the player so I want to make that very clear and Lloyd’s an important part of what we’re doing.”
Kelly has been more of a rotation player under Howe this season. The 25-year-old has made 13 appearances in all competitions so far, helping Newcastle keep four clean sheets.
Fenerbahce prepare new Kelly offer
Despite their initial offer of around £11million being rejected by Newcastle. Fenerbahce are not backing down by any means.
According to Sabah, Mourinho is ready to make a revised offer for Kelly in January. The legendary manager is keen on bringing a left-sided defender to Turkey and has identified the former Bournemouth man as the ideal target.
Fenerbahce already lost Ferdi Kadioglu to Brighton in the summer. Jayden Oosterwolde, their other option is out of action with a long-term injury.
The Turkish side could be ready to splash the cash to land their man, a huge boost to Howe’s summer transfer kitty.
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