Defender, Lloyd Kelly has joined Newcastle United on a free transfer, following his departure from Bournemouth.
Kelly’s arrival at St James’ Park comes after he left Bournemouth following a five-year stint at the Vitality Stadium, where he scored three goals in 141 appearances and helped the Cherries secure promotion back to the Premier League in 2021-22 season, just two years after they were relegated.
The 25 year-old however decided to seek a new challenge away from the Vitality Stadium and declined a new contract, in order to reunite with current Newcastle manager – Eddie Howe who had signed him from Bristol City in 2019 when in charge of Bournemouth.
Kelly has signed a five-year contract with the Magpies until June 2029 along with the option of a further 12 months, and can play either as a left centre-back or left full-back.
Speaking about his decision to move to the Magpies, Kelly commented: “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’s a big move for myself and the family – of course being down south is a bit different – but I think the city of Newcastle is amazing, with the contrast between city life and the countryside.
“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.”
Howe meanwhile is “really pleased” to reunite with Kelly who he considers as a “proven” top-flight player and is confident that the defender will bring strong defensive quality to the team.
“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.”
Kelly began his career at Bristol City where he graduated through their academy and went on to score two goals in 48 senior appearances.
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