Breaking News:Newcastle United will consider sanctioning January transfer after five-year deal agreed – on one condition…
Newcastle United will consider selling Lloyd Kelly – but only if a serious offer arrives.
In the past week, Kelly has attracted interest from Fenerbahce and Juventus but neither club has come close to signing the 26-year-old, who penned a five-year contract at St James’ Park in the summer.
A lot of the speculation has been pushed from the potential buyer’s side. Fenerbahce vice-president Acun Ilicali spoke publicly about their hope of recruiting Kelly, while the Italian media have drummed up Juventus’ interest in the last 24 hours
Kelly has struggled for game time since arriving on a free transfer from AFC Bournemouth, starting just four of United’s 22 Premier League matches – his last being the 2-0 defeat at home to West Ham United in November.
The form of Dan Burn and Lewis Hall, plus the respective returns of Sven Botman and Matt Targett from injury, adds further complication but Newcastle boss Eddie Howe played down the exit talk last Friday.
“Yeah, Lloyd’s not talked to me at all about wanting to leave the football club,” Howe said. “He’s only just joined. I think there’s an understanding from his perspective that he’s got to come in and earn the right to play and prove that he deserves to play ahead of other players.
“So he’s been absolutely no issue. He’s been great to work with, as I knew he would be. He’s waiting for his opportunity, so there’s no issue with Lloyd at all.
“I think this is, whatever rumours you’re hearing, are club-driven from Fenerbahce, not from the player. So I want to make that very clear.
“And Lloyd’s an important part of what we’re doing. As I said, he’s recently joined, we’re working with him, we’re enjoying working with him, and he’s got an important part to play.”
Despite picking up the player on a free transfer in July, Newcastle feel they are under no obligation to make a quick profit. Sources in Italy have claimed the Magpies value Kelly anywhere between £15m to £25m.
Juventus are the only team currently tracking Kelly with Fenerbahce set to complete the signing of Aston Villa defender Diego Carlos.
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