Abdulhafiz TeslimNewcastle United are currently at the front of the queue to sign Juventus centre-back Lloyd Kelly this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
That is according to former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, who has heard from his contacts that the Magpies are ahead of their competition for the 27-year-old.
Recent reports from Italy have claimed that Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest are also keen on the defender, but Newcastle are now understood to be leading the race despite strong competition for his signature.
Wyness has emphasised that he expects Eddie Howe’s relationship with Kelly from their time together at Bournemouth could prove decisive in securing the deal.
Kelly enjoyed a brief stint on Tyneside at the start of the 2024-25 campaign and could now be set for a return to St James’ Park after just 18 months away.
He started 33 Serie A matches for Juventus last season but was unable to help the Italian giants secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
Keith Wyness: Newcastle the best fit for Lloyd Kelly
Everton’s former chief Wyness—who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs—believes Newcastle are the club who need Kelly most right now.
The Magpies are keen to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season, and Wyness believes that Kelly would be an ideal fit for Eddie Howe’s squad.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, he made it clear that the defender is a “must-have” for Newcastle.
«”I see Kelly going to Newcastle as being the most likely. Eddie Howe had him at Bournemouth for a period of time, and there is a relationship there.»
«”He’s also a better fit for the Newcastle squad. I think he’ll get more minutes and he’s a nice-to-have for Villa rather than a must-have, whereas for Newcastle he’s a must-have.»
«”I think the Howe connection will end up being the key thing. He’s at the right sort of price for Newcastle as well.»
«”I did make a couple of calls about Kelly, and I think Newcastle is where the deal is at the moment.”»
The Magpies continue to assess defensive reinforcements as they prepare for the new campaign, with Kelly emerging as one of their leading targets. His familiarity with Eddie Howe’s tactical approach and Premier League experience make him an attractive option as Newcastle look to strengthen their backline.
While Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest remain interested, Newcastle are believed to be in pole position to complete the deal should negotiations progress as expected.
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Abdulhafiz Teslim
