Newcastle United are set to confirm the signing of Llyod Kelly once the transfer window officially opens, according to a report from Northern Echo. 

The Magpies are looking to add a new defender to their ranks and have been linked with a move for Kelly who leaves AFC Bournemouth as a free agent.

According to a report from The Chronicle, the Magpies remain in advanced talks to sign Kelly as they look to secure his signature. Newcastle are hopeful that they have done enough to persuade him to move to St James’ Park despite interest from a host of clubs.

West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur also registered their interest in recent weeks, while Roma and Atletico Madrid have been considering moves to get him on board.

However, writing on their website on 6 June, the Northern Echo reports that a deal has already been agreed, and Kelly will move to Newcastle when the transfer officially opens this month. The centre-half will be reunited with Eddie Howe, who signed him for Bournemouth from Bristol City.

“Lloyd Kelly will be confirmed as the Magpies’ second summer arrival when the transfer window officially reopens later this month,” writes Scott Wilson for the Northern Echo.

Kelly to become second signing for Newcastle

Newcastle were interested in signing Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo, but he looks all set to join Chelsea instead.

It appears that the Magpies are genuinely confident of signing Kelly, who will become the second signing of the summer. Newcastle have already secured one transfer after turning Lewis Hall’s loan move from Chelsea into a permanent one.

The Magpies are also looking to sign a new goalkeeper this summer as they look to find a solid back-up to Nick Pope. There are major question marks over the future of Martin Dubravka, who will enter the final year of his current contract on Tyneside.

Newcastle have been linked with Valencia goalkeeper Giorgo Mamardashvili, but they have been put off by Los Che’s valuation.