Newcastle's first summer signing - This early move looking likely after latest injury blow?

Ahead of another huge transfer window on Tyneside, it was clear before Sven Botman's injury that Newcastle would be looking to sign at least one centre-back this summer.

Now the Dutchman is facing six to nine months on the sidelines following an ACL injury that requires surgery, our search for another central defender will almost certainly move up a notch.

One name that refuses to go away is Lloyd Kelly. Eddie Howe signed him from Bournemouth and is thought to be a big fan.

The Mail's Craig Hope revealed earlier reported last month that we've already held talks with his representatives over a summer move to St James' Park, with Steve Nickson 'pressing ahead with talks' now the 25-year-old looks set to become available on a free transfer.

Kelly's ability to play as a left-sided centre-back or left-back will appeal on two fronts. He may have considered an upgrade on Dan Burn, offering greater pace and ability on the ball than the 6ft 7' Geordie, but he's equally comfortable at centre-back, meaning he could fill in for the injured Botman over the first few months of the 2024/25 season.

He's gone on to become Bournemouth's captain since Howe's departure, suggesting leadership skills that will surely appeal, but the very fact he's available on a 'free' will be hugely enticing for a club looking to recruit smartly in the world of FFP and PSR restrictions.

A low-cost move for Kelly wouldn't be a glamourous signing, but it would free up funds to spend big on Fabian Schar's eventual replacement. With a defensive midfielder, right winger and striker also needed this summer, free agents like this could help our budget go further.

One concern is the injuries he himself has picked up over the past few seasons, as hip and muscle issues have seen him miss 14 games this term. While that may be enough to put us off when he'd be arriving to cover the injured Botman, his age, Premier League experience, versatility, relationship with Howe and price point see him tick so many boxes heading into the summer.

He wouldn't be the big-money right-sided centre-back we hope to see sign to eventually replace the ageing Fabian Schar, but it could be smart business and a signing that just makes sense in our current predicament.

One to watch and an early deal I think we'll be pushing to wrap up in light of Botman's long-term injury.