It may be Euro 2024 season but Newcastle United are still the main topic on Tyneside!
The summer transfer window officially opened on Friday, and the Magpies have already got down to business by bringing in Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer from AFC Bournemouth. The question is… what next?
Here, our writers Liam Kennedy and Jordan Cronin answer questions on Kelly, James Trafford, further incomings, possible outgoings and Eddie Howe.
What are your thoughts on the signing of Lloyd Kelly?
LK: “Solid start to the window. It’s a signing that enables funds to be pushed into significant upgrades much further forward. He’s got pace and experience as well as being a natural born leader, so lots to like about him. However, and this is a big concern, his injury record is not the best – and remember, he’s coming to the club with the worst injury record in the Premier League last season.”
JC: “It could prove to be a shrewd piece of business. His ability is unquestioned, while his leadership and versatility is excellent to have in the squad. The key now is to remain fit and if he does that, it’d be no surprise to see him push for the England squad.”
James Trafford could be the next through the door – a good signing?
LK: “I’m torn on this one. I can see the logic, to an extent, but also have my reservations. He’s clearly coming in as a No.2 to Nick Pope, so I get why they’re doing it, if the keeper who they think takes the club right to the top is not available this summer. However, I even have doubts about that.
“Is Trafford, at 21, off the bank of a confidence-sapping first season in the top flight, ready to play week-in, week-out if Pope gets injured again? And how will he, this time, deal with top flight scrutiny? Jury is out, at the moment, but that’s not to doubt he’s a lad of good size and talent.”
“I think Nick Pope staying fit is key to the Trafford deal being a success. A season as an understudy and he’ll be better for it. He’s still young and shouldn’t be written off following a tough season in a relegated team. As Liam alluded too, signing Kelly on a free, and a goalkeeper for a reported £20m allows Newcastle to go big on other positions.”
What other positions do Newcastle need to strengthen, as a priority?
