Newcastle ‘target double transfer raid on Bournemouth for Billing and Kelly’ but face battle with European giants
NEWCASTLE are targeting a double transfer raid on Bournemouth for Lloyd Kelly and Philip Billing.
The Magpies are looking to strengthen their squad this summer after an underwhelming season.
But after reportedly recording a financial loss of over £70million, Eddie Howe will not have a big budget to play with.
And the Mail claims Newcastle are now lining up a free swoop for Bournemouth defender Kelly.
The versatile centre-back is out of contract this summer and unlikely to pen a new Cherries deal.
Kelly, 25, would provide cover in the middle and at left-back.
And Toon are preparing to move for him at the end of the season despite Kelly already receiving offers from several European sides.
AC Milan, Monaco and Stuttgart are all thought to have presented contracts, with Premier League players able to discuss moves with foreign sides six months before their current deals expire.
Newcastle are also said to be keeping a close eye on Kelly’s teammate Billing.
The 27-year-old midfielder has found himself sidelined by Andoi Iraola.
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And he could be available for just £15m.
Billing is seen as a bargain replacement for Joelinton, who is out of contract in 2025.
His wage demands mean he’s unlikely to land a new Toon deal.
The Magpies will therefore look to sell the Brazilian, who is currently injured, at the end of the season.
And should they manage to land Billing for £15m, they can put the rest of Joelinton’s fee towards balancing the books.
Billing has been at Bournemouth since 2019 after joining from relegated Huddersfield.
He’s gone to score 31 goals in 179 outings, but most of his 18 league appearances this term have come from the bench.
As for Kelly, he joined the Cherries from Bristol City in 2019 and has three goals in 117 games.
He’s played only 11 times in the league this season and was subbed off at the break in Saturday’s 3-1 defeat at Fulham.