Transfer Centre

"It wasn't a hard decision" - Newcastle United's first summer signing reacts to Eddie Howe reunion

By Oliver Thomas, Senior Reporter | 13 June 2024

Newcastle United announce their first signing of the summer transfer window and the 25-year-old explains why "it wasn't a hard decision" to reunite with manager Eddie Howe.

Newcastle United have announced the signing of defender Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer from Bournemouth.

The 25-year-old will leave the Cherries upon the expiration of his contract on June 30 and will officially joined the Magpies on the first day of July.

Kelly completed his medical on Wednesday in the North East and has since put pen to paper on a long-term contract.

The left-sided defender, who is comfortable operating as a left-back or centre-back, has been handed the No.25 shirt at Newcastle and becomes Eddie Howe's first signing of the summer.

Kelly reunites with Howe, who previously signed the defender as Bournemouth boss in 2019 for a reported £13m from Bristol City.

Following a five-year spell at Bournemouth, Kelly departs after making 141 appearances across all competitions, including 23 Premier League outings last season for Andoni Iraola's side, who finished 12th in the table.

Signed. Sealed. Delivered. 📫 pic.twitter.com/ZVNuIQBLF4
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) June 13, 2024

Kelly reacts after making "big move" to Newcastle

Commenting on his move to Newcastle, Kelly told the club's official website: "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 added: "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."

Kelly is set to link up with his new Newcastle teammates before they jet off to Japan for the start of their pre-season tour at the end of July.