Transfer Centre

Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur 'to battle for Lloyd Kelly in January'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 08 September 2023

Liverpool, Spurs 'to battle for Kelly in January'

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly considering whether to make an approach for Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly during the January transfer window.

Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are reportedly contemplating whether to make an approach for Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly in January.

The Englishman made the switch to the Vitality Stadium from Bristol City in 2019 and has since gone on to justify his £13m price tag.

Kelly has made a total of 119 appearances in all competitions, establishing himself as one of the Cherries' best defenders and showcasing his versatility during that time.

As a result of his consistency, the 24-year-old has regularly attracted interest in his signature without a major Premier League club following up with sustained bids.

However, with less than 12 months now remaining on his contract, the opportunity may arise to take on a new challenge, and Bournemouth are unlikely to want to lose a key player on a free transfer.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp pictured in August 2023 © Reuters

Furthermore, 90min claims that Kelly is not particularly in any rush to consider penning fresh terms with the South Coast outfit, creating a scenario where some of the bigger clubs in England's top flight are taking note.

The report suggests that each of Liverpool, Spurs and Newcastle are interested in adding Kelly to their squad at the midway point of the campaign.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has, according to previous reports, been a long-term admirer of Kelly and his versatility is something that would be appreciated in his squad.

Klopp may require further competition at centre-back in due course, although he already has Andrew Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas at his disposal at left-back.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou reacts on September 2, 2023 © Reuters

Meanwhile, Spurs head coach Ange Postecoglou could be keen to find a replacement for Eric Dier in January, as well as ensure that Spurs continue to acquire more domestic-based players to fulfil Premier League criteria.

With Harry Winks and Harry Kane having departed on permanent transfers and the likes of Japhet Tanganga, Djed Spence and Joe Rodon having gone out on loan, the North Londoners are low in that area.

As for Newcastle, Kelly would theoretically be regarded as an important addition in the middle of the backline with further backup required for Fabian Schar and Sven Botman.

Eddie Howe has shown a preference for acquiring players who can play in more than one position, although the Magpies boss is well-stocked for options at left-back.