The news that Newcastle United are closing in on the signature of a long-time transfer target will undoubtedly come as a relief.
HITC reported on Tuesday that Lloyd Kelly – a man Eddie Howe knows very well from their time together at AFC Bournemouth – will reunite with his former boss at St James’ Park.
Kelly’s contract expires in July. The left-footed centre-half is set to join Newcastle on a five-year deal, and it is understood that he could undergo medical tests within the next few days.
Now, Kelly is not the sort of signing that will have neutrals quaking in their boots. It’s not going to make too many headlines outside of Tyneside. But with Newcastle’s central defensive search throwing up plenty of obstacles, there will be a sigh of relief eminating from this particular corner of the North East as The Magpies fight off competition from the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool.
Newcastle, after all, missed out on another leading target as recently as last week. Tosin Adarabioyo made the short trip from Fulham to Chelsea instead. Zeno Debast will also slip through Howe’s fingers, one month after the Daily Mail reported that Anderlecht’s young Belgium international had caught the eye.
Newcastle and West Ham miss out on Zeno Debast
Newcastle’s chief scout Steve Nickson reportedly watched 20-year-old Debast as he impressed during a 2-2 draw with England at Wembley in March. But while nothing has been officially confirmed regarding his future – unlike Tosin, posing for photos in Chelsea blue – Debast made sure to provide some clarity on his own future during an interview with Het Laaste Nieuws.
St James’ Park will not be his destination. Nor will West Ham United, the London Stadium outfit having included Debast on their own summer wishlist.
“I have decided to play for Sporting Club de Portugal next season,” Debast reveals, convinced by highly-rated head coach Ruben Amorim to committ his future to the Primeira Liga champions.
“My choice was inspired by the trust that this traditional club places in me. Sporting is the right next step for me, because the sporting challenges match my ambitions.”
While Newcastle’s European adventure ended before it even begun – thanks to Man United’s FA Cup final victory over Man City – Sporting have a seat at the top table and will be dining alongside Real Madrid and Inter Milan in 2024/25.
Belgium international announces Spoting Lisbon move
“Next season, we will play the Champions League and make another attempt at the national title,” Debast adds. “The conversations with champion-maker Ruben Amorim also convinced me completely.
“He, together with his staff, has taken the trouble to follow me for months. And I am convinced that he will help me further in my development as a professional footballer. I look forward to getting to know my new team-mates and achieving our goals together with the staff.”
HLN reports that Sporting will pay £13.5 million up front – rising to £17 million – for a man some have labelled the heir to Vincent Kompany’s throne back home in Belgium.
“Both clubs have yet to reach an agreement,” Debast explains. “But I am confident (that they will) do so as there is a positive dialogue and all parties are working constructively to reach an agreement.
“In any case, my decision is made. I will play for Sporting Lisbon next season.”
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