NUFC source: Groundwork already laid for 'Rolls-Royce' signing; Howe called him 'outstanding'

Sources from Newcastle United have now revealed that groundwork is already being laid for the potential signing of Lloyd Kelly in the summer.

Of course, Kelly is a player that Eddie Howe knows very well, having been the manager who originally signed him for AFC Bournemouth, where he went on to play nine matches under him, in an albeit injury-hit season.

The Englishman is someone that Howe has great admiration for, having called him ‘outstanding‘ in the past, while another former Cherries boss and ex-Magpie Jonathan Woodgate has even gone as far as to describe Kelly as a ‘Rolls-Royce‘ of a defender.

Nonetheless, this potential move will be one to look out for in the summer, and as opposed to targets like Sven Botman, you feel this one could happen regardless of whether the St. James’ Park faithful get relegated or not.

As per Football Insider, the North East club are already laying the groundwork to sign Kelly in the summer, and intend to move even if they go down.

Tyneside sources have revealed to the outlet that club scouts watched him play for Bournemouth against Barnsley in the Championship last week, as they continue to track him ahead of the next transfer window.

Kelly has shown already that he can shine in the Championship, playing and captaining the Cherries in almost every match this term in their fight for automatic promotion (Transfermarkt).

He has experience of playing in the top flight as well, and at 23 years of age, will feel like now is the time to step up.

Equally as comfortable at playing as a left-back as well as in the heart of the defence, Kelly also offers that extra versatility that Howe will surely cherish, regardless of what division he is managing in next campaign.

Source