'Amazing' - Newcastle United make Tottenham target their second summer signing as Chelsea deal agreed

Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer from AFC Bournemouth.

The 25-year-old has penned a five-year contract, including an option of a further year. The deal will be made official on July 1 when his contract with the Cherries expires. He will wear the number 25 squad.

The defender, capable of operating at centre-back or left-back, will become the club’s second summer signing after Lewis Hall, whose loan from Chelsea will become permanent for an initial £28million.

Commenting on his move, Kelly 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’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.”

Kelly has previously attracted interest from a number of clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur. Bournemouth previously rejected a £20m bid from the North London outfit last summer.

European clubs Roma and Atletico Madrid have reportedly contacted Kelly’s representatives in recent weeks but the defender has opted to move to St James’ Park, where he will reunite with Eddie Howe. The pair are already familiar to each other after Howe signed Kelly for Bournemouth in 2019 in a £13m deal from Bristol City.

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.”

During Kelly’s five years on the South Coast, he managed 141 appearances and was captain where they were promoted back to the Premier League in 2021-22.