Leeds United are now showing “concrete interest” in signing Lloyd Kelly, amid a new update on the defender’s future at Juventus.
Formerly of AFC Bournemouth, Kelly has been plying his trade in the Serie A since signing for Juventus in the 2025 January transfer window, where he has earned rave reviews for his performances from commentator Adam Summerton.
However, the centre-back is already being eyed up for a return to the Premier League, with former club Newcastle United reportedly well-placed to secure a deal, while the likes of Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest are also waiting in the wings.
Football FanCast’s Verdict | |
|---|---|
Credibility | Leeds may need to sign a new defender in the coming weeks, given that Pascal Struijk is widely reported to be closing in on a move to Brighton. The Whites were ultimately forced to cash-in on the 26-year-old, in order to avoid losing him on a free when his contract expires next summer. |
Finances | Juventus are expected to demand £30m for Kelly, which should be affordable for Leeds, given that they are expected to raise £20m from the sale of Struijk. |
Insight | Journalist Josh Bunting has lauded the Englishman as “brilliant” during his time with Juventus, where he made 35 Serie A appearances last season. The ex-Newcastle man also has experience in the Premier League, appearing 64 times across spells with the Magies and Bournemouth. |
Impact | Akin to Struijk, Kelly is also left-footed, which means he could be a like-for-like replacement for the Dutchman at the heart of Daniel Farke’s defence. |
Leeds showing “concrete interest” in Lloyd Kelly
Journalist Marco Conterio has now dropped an update on Kelly’s future, stating he could leave Juventus in the summer transfer window, and he has attracted “concrete interest” from Leeds.
There could be competition for his signature though, with unnamed clubs from Spain also keen, alongside the aforementioned English suitors.
Lloyd Kelly could be ready to return to Premier League
The 27-year-old has really kicked on since making the move to Italy, ranking very highly in the Juventus squad across a number of key metrics in the Serie A last season.
- 2,998 minutes played (3rd)
- 54.3 accurate passes per 90 (2nd)
- 3.5 clearances per 90 (3rd)
- 0.5 blocks per 90 (2nd)
The Juventus star also received plaudits from Eddie Howe for his performances during his stint at St. James’ Park, with the Newcastle boss saying: “He has made a really positive impact with the group.
“I have been really impressed by his performances, especially when he came on in a difficult situation for us. He would say he is ready and he is pushing for a start.”
Moreover, the fact that Kelly is also left-footed is an added bonus, and indicates he could be the ideal Struijk heir.
Leeds in ongoing club-to-club talks to sign ‘class’ player after Harry Wilson
Daniel Farke wants to add more quality.
