Newcastle United might soon face a tough decision about one of their defenders. Lloyd Kelly, who joined Newcastle on a free transfer last summer, has struggled to get consistent minutes. Now, Juventus are showing strong interest in the 26-year-old as they look to reinforce their backline.
The Italian giants are preparing a formal bid after Newcastle rejected their initial loan offer with an option to buy. Transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio has reported that Newcastle value Kelly at around €30 million. This transfer saga has left fans wondering if the Magpies will let Kelly leave during the January transfer window.
#Calciomercato | #Juventus su #Kelly del #Newcastle: il difensore classe 1998 è valutato circa 30 milioni e può superare la concorrenza di #Tomori
— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) January 19, 2025
Eddie Howe has made it clear that he wants Kelly to stay. However, Juventus seem determined to secure the defender's services.
Latest Newcastle transfer news: Eddie Howe wants to keep Lloyd Kelly
Juventus have identified Kelly as a potential solution to their defensive issues. They previously targeted AC Milan’s Fikayo Tomori but failed to bring him in. Now, they see Kelly as a promising option.
READ MORE: Newcastle United face potential exit of summer signing as European giants make the move
Kelly has made just a handful of appearances for Newcastle this season. Despite limited game time, Howe insists that the defender remains an important part of the squad. Speaking to the media, Howe said;
"Lloyd has not talked to me about leaving the football club. He understands that he needs to earn his place."Eddie Howe
Newcastle fans understand the competition for defensive spots at the club. Players like Sven Botman, Dan Burn, and Fabian Schär have secured their places in the starting lineup. This has left Kelly fighting for opportunities to prove himself.
Journalist Ben Jacobs recently reported that Howe wants Kelly to stay at Newcastle. On X, Jacobs wrote;
"Newcastle have rejected an approach from Juventus for Lloyd Kelly. Eddie Howe wants Kelly to stay, but Juventus are expected to make a formal bid"Ben Jacobs
Juventus see potential in Kelly's versatility. The player can operate as a central defender or as a left-back. These qualities make him an attractive option for the Italian side. If Newcastle decide to sell, it could help them reinvest the funds. However, losing Kelly could reduce the squad's depth, especially with a busy season ahead.
Newcastle transfer news continues to heat up, and fans will closely follow Kelly's situation. While Juventus prepare their bid, Howe seems focused on keeping the defender in the squad. Whether Kelly stays or goes, this story is far from over.