Newcastle have signed Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer from Bournemouth.
The defender will join the Magpies officially on July 1 when his Cherries contract expires after signing a five-year deal at St James’ Park.
Kelly reunites with Toon boss Eddie Howe, who signed him while he was in charge at Bournemouth in 2019.
The 25-year-old said: “It’s amazing to be coming here. I know how big the club is and how much it means to all the fans, and I just want to hit the ground running and get to work.
“It wasn’t a hard decision for me to come here.
“Working with the gaffer previously, I know what he wants from his players and how he wants his players to play, and I think with what I can bring it just makes sense. I just can’t wait to get started.”
✍️ We are delighted to announce that Lloyd Kelly will join the club on 1 July 2024.
Welcome to Newcastle United, Lloyd! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/aoX7ixnS32
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) June 13, 2024
Kelly made 141 appearances for Bournemouth and was a key man in the Premier League under Andoni Iraola last season.
Newcastle are under financial pressure due to profit and sustainability regulations so the free signing looks to be a shrewed piece of business by the Geordies.
Howe said: “I’m really pleased to have secured Lloyd’s signature.
“He’s a player who’s proven himself at Premier League level and I’m certain he’ll be a great addition as we prepare for the new season.
“Lloyd is a player I’ve admired since the early stages of his career.
“Alongside his undoubted defensive ability, he brings versatility and leadership qualities that I believe will make him a great fit within our squad and somebody our supporters will quickly take to.
“He has plenty of Premier League experience already under his belt, yet Lloyd’s at an age where he can still develop.
“He has a lot of potential and I’m really looking forward to working with him again.”
