Newcastle are set to battle rivals over January move for ‘incredible’ PL star

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Newcastle are set to battle Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur over the signing of Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly.

That’s according to 90min, who have claimed that the trio are interested in a January transfer for the 24-year-old. Spurs saw a bid of around £20m rejected for him in the summer window, indicating that an even higher price will be needed to convince Bournemouth to part ways with him.

Newcastle left themselves short at centre-back in the summer window, despite strengthening elsewhere, and Sven Botman missed the game against Brighton with an injury.

The report has claimed that Newcastle could be tempted to move for him in January to solve their depth problem in the position, but given that funds were reportedly limited by financial fair play during the summer, it remains unclear what kind of offer they could make for him.

Should Newcastle sign Kelly?

Kelly has attracted interest after a strong campaign saw him make 23 league appearances last season, as he missed a number of games due to an ankle injury.

Former Bournemouth boss Gary O’Neil described him as “incredible” following a shock 1-0 victory over Liverpool, and he does fit the age profile of Newcastle’s transfer targets, whilst he is also experienced in the Premier League.

However, a big caveat is that he is a left-footed defender, who is also capable of playing at left-back. Given that Dan Burn seems to be the main cover for Botman as a left-sided centre-back, with new signing Lewis Hall also capable of filling in, Newcastle’s priority may have to be a right-sided option.

There is little cover for Fabian Schar, and it is unclear whether Eddie Howe would be willing to use two left-footed centre-backs in a back four.

With interest coming from potential top-four rivals in Liverpool and Spurs, it may take a big fee, and possibly the promise of game-time to convince Kelly to join, and he may not fully solve Newcastle’s issue if he joins. Whilst he could be a solid addition, the Magpies may be better off looking elsewhere in January.