Newcastle United is on the verge of signing Lloyd Kelly from AFC Bournemouth in a deal that could have a ripple effect on the transfer market. According to HITC, Kelly’s move to Newcastle may pave the way for Ben Godfrey to leave Everton for Italy.Kelly, a highly sought-after center-half, has agreed to personal terms with Newcastle and is expected to undergo a medical this week before signing a five-year contract.
The 24-year-old defender had also attracted interest from Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, AC Milan, and Roma, but has chosen to reunite with his former Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe at Newcastle.The signing of Kelly could offset the loss of Sven Botman, who is out with a long-term injury. Newcastle had also considered other defenders, including Tosin Adarabioyo, who recently joined Chelsea, and Nicolas Valentini of Boca Juniors.
Kelly’s departure from Bournemouth may be a significant loss for the Cherries, but his former coach Jonathan Woodgate believes he has the talent and attributes to succeed in the Premier League. Woodgate praised Kelly’s versatility, ability to play at center-half and left-back, and his potential to play at a higher level.
Meanwhile, Ben Godfrey, who has been linked to AC Milan and Roma, may be the next player to leave Everton. Godfrey, who joined Everton from Norwich in 2020, has turned down offers to extend his stay at Goodison Park and may be looking for a new challenge in Italy.The potential departure of Godfrey could be a significant blow to Everton, who have already lost several key players in recent years. However, the Toffees may be able to reinvest the funds from Godfrey’s sale to strengthen their squad.
In conclusion, the transfer market is heating up, and the moves of Lloyd Kelly and Ben Godfrey could have a significant impact on the Premier League landscape. Newcastle United’s signing of Kelly could be a shrewd move, while Everton’s potential loss of Godfrey may be a significant blow.
As the transfer window unfolds, fans and pundits alike will be watching with keen interest to see how these moves shape the teams’ fortunes in the upcoming season.