O'Rourke Exclusive: Newcastle transfer is a 'done deal'

Newcastle United have secured the signing of defender Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer, sources have told Football Insider. 

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed the deal won’t impact the north-east giants’ budget too much due to Bournemouth not receiving a transfer fee.

Football Insider revealed last month Newcastle have offered Kelly, 25, a “big-money” four-year deal to make the switch to St James’ Park once his contract expires later this month.

O’Rourke explained the deal is now “done” and “works perfectly” for the Tyneside club as Eddie Howe has prioritised bringing in proven top-flight defenders this summer.

Newcastle were also hoping to sign Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer from Fulham after offering him a triple-your-money contract, but the centre-back has decided to join Chelsea instead.

Newcastle to sign Lloyd Kelly after injury woes

Howe has been keen to bring in a new central defender as Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are both recovering from long-term injuries, while Paul Dummett has been released.

Kelly, who Howe signed for Bournemouth from Bristol City in 2019, provides decent Premier League experience and would add to Newcastle’s quota of homegrown, British players.

Despite spending a couple of spells on the sidelines, the former England youth international caught the eye in his 25 appearances last season and offers versatility with his ability to play at left-back.

Football Insider previously revealed Kelly has turned down multiple contract offers to remain at the Vitality Stadium beyond this campaign.

The centre-back is now expected to complete his move to St James’ Park in the coming days as Howe looks to strengthen his defensive options.

In other news, a new update has emerged on the future of Bruno Guimaraes.

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