£20m defender hits back at transfer claims after Newcastle United agreement
Lloyd Kelly Shuts Down Rumors of Premier League Return Amid Juventus Commitment
Former Newcastle United defender Lloyd Kelly has firmly refuted speculation suggesting he could be on his way back to the Premier League, despite ongoing reports linking him with Crystal Palace.
Kelly, who signed for Newcastle on a free transfer from AFC Bournemouth during the previous summer window, found opportunities limited at St James’ Park. The 26-year-old made just four appearances in the Premier League before securing a loan move to Italian giants Juventus in January.
The loan arrangement between the Magpies and Juventus included a mandatory purchase clause, reported to be worth around £20 million. Although early reports suggested the permanent deal was conditional on Juventus qualifying for European competition, it has since been clarified that the clause was performance-based, triggered by the number of appearances Kelly made during his loan spell.
Despite a hamstring injury that sidelined him for two matches, Kelly started 14 out of 16 games for Juventus. His contributions on the pitch ensured the criteria for the transfer were met, making his stay in Turin permanent. The official confirmation of the deal is expected on June 30, after the conclusion of the Club World Cup, where Kelly is currently representing Juventus.
Criticism in Italy and Transfer Speculation
Kelly’s transition to Serie A has not been without criticism. Sections of the Italian media have been harsh in their assessment of his performances, with Gazzetta dello Sport writer Mimmo Cugini going as far as labeling him “the most disastrous signing in the history of Juventus.” Another journalist from the same outlet, Giovanni Albanese, recently claimed that Juventus could be considering selling Kelly in the upcoming transfer window due to doubts about his long-term suitability.
These reports sparked rumors that Premier League club Crystal Palace had shown interest in bringing Kelly back to England. However, when asked directly about the speculation, the former England U21 international dismissed the idea of an immediate return.
“Interest from Crystal Palace? I’m 100% focused on Juventus and doing well here,” said Kelly. “I want to remain in Turin for a long time.”
Eddie Howe Reflects on Kelly’s Departure
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has opened up about the decision to let Kelly leave mid-season. According to Howe, while he would have preferred to keep the versatile defender, financial and strategic considerations ultimately influenced the club’s decision.
“It wasn’t necessarily my decision to let him leave,” Howe admitted. “It was a reluctant move from our side because Lloyd only recently joined us, and we had high hopes for him. He’s a talented player, but unfortunately, he found himself behind others in the pecking order.”
Howe pointed out that Kelly’s limited playing time was largely due to the strong form of other defenders like Dan Burn, Sven Botman, and Lewis Hall. With Kelly also on a significant salary, Newcastle saw the opportunity to improve their standing under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) by agreeing to the deal with Juventus.
“In this transfer window, managing our PSR obligations has been a major focus,” Howe explained. “Sometimes you have to make decisions that don’t feel great in the short term but are beneficial in the long term. This was one of those calls.”
Despite the exit, Howe praised Kelly’s professionalism and attitude during his brief spell at the club.
“Lloyd leaves with our best wishes,” said Howe. “He’s shown great character and professionalism, and I believe he has the ability to succeed in Italy. It’s an exciting new challenge for him.”
Newcastle’s Transfer Strategy Going Forward
Kelly’s permanent transfer to Juventus has provided Newcastle with some much-needed financial flexibility as they navigate the tight restrictions of PSR. The club is yet to make any new signings during the current summer transfer window, though insiders suggest that progress could be made in early July.
The Magpies are expected to strengthen key areas of the squad in the coming weeks, with the money generated from Kelly’s departure potentially playing a pivotal role in shaping their recruitment strategy.
For now, Lloyd Kelly appears fully committed to his Italian adventure, determined to prove his worth at one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs, regardless of outside speculation.