Newcastle want to sign 25-year-old on a free, Eddie Howe has been ‘blown away’ by him before

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Newcastle United could be lining up a PSR-busting deal for the summer transfer window.

The January transfer window was difficult for the Magpies, with Eddie Howe‘s side unable to make any senior signings. The Premier League‘s profit and sustainability rules would not allow it, with Newcastle needing to sell before they buy.

There were rumours of Kieran Trippier, Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron all leaving, but the transfer window slammed shut on February 1st with them all still at St James’ Park.

Now focus will shift to the summer transfer window, when Newcastle will once again will be very wary of profit and sustainability rules.

And that is why one of Eddie Howe’s former players looks like he could be a target.

Newcastle interested in Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle United are considering a summer move for Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly.

The 25-year-old centre-back is a man in demand, with his contract at the Vitality Stadium due to expire.

Clubs are queuing up to potentially sign Kelly on a free transfer, and it looks like Newcastle United are signalling their intent.

That is no surprise, as Kelly is a player who has been linked with the Magpies before. Eddie Howe tried to sign him shortly after becoming Toon manager, but was unable to do a deal.

In fact, Howe was actually the man who brought Kelly to Bournemouth. He signed the defender from Bristol City, and has previously admitted to have been ‘blown away‘ by him.

Now they could be reunited at St James’ Park, in a deal that would certainly help Newcastle’s PSR situation. While nothing is ever free, getting a player of Kelly’s quality without paying a transfer fee would really benefit Newcastle. It would mean that there is more money to invest elsewhere, with the Magpies planning to rebuild after what is proving to be a challenging season.

Kelly could be a smart addition. He is capable of playing at centre-back or left-back, and would add depth to a defence that has been nowhere near as solid this season.