Club 'abandon' £17m Newcastle talks with Aston Villa star set to sign instead

by Olly Hawkins · 17 January 2025, 17:42

A few days ago, Turkish journalist Sercan Hamzaoglu broke news that Fenerbahce had entered talks over a shock move for Lloyd Kelly, claiming an 'official offer' had been lodged.

This surprise story was backed up by the local media, although it emerged that their opening bid was rejected and considered well below Newcastle's valuation of the 26-year-old.

After a quiet day or two on the Kelly saga, Hamzaoglu has issued an update on the situation, revealing Newcastle's demands and where negotiations currently stand.

Update from Turkey on Kelly to Fenerbahce

Following reports in the North-East that Newcastle received offers in the region of £6-11m for Kelly's services, Hamzaoglu has explained why a deal could now be dead.

He reports that Newcastle's Saudi owners are 'hard sellers' and are demanding €20m (£17m in GBP) for Kelly, which appears to be too much for the Super Lig side.

In an update posted on X, he said: 'Newcastle United want €20 million for Lloyd Kelly. Newcastle are a real “hard seller” bargainer because the club is owned by Arabs. Upon this request, Fenerbahçe abandoned the negotiations.'

This seems to add up, with Fabrizio Romano reporting today that Fenerbahce are now closing in on the signing of Aston Villa centre-back Diego Carlos instead.

Howe responds to Kelly rumours

Speaking in his Friday-morning press conference, Eddie Howe made it pretty clear that Kelly is fighting for his place at Newcastle and in no way angling for an early exit.

The boss also felt the Fenerbahce rumours have not come from our side or the player himself, making it "very clear" that Kelly remains an "important part" of the squad.

“Lloyd has not talked to me about leaving the football club. I think he’s only just joined and I think there’s an understanding from his perspective that he’s got to earn the right to play and prove that he deserves to play ahead of other players.

“So there’s been absolutely no issue. He’s been great to work with and I knew he would be. He’s waiting for his opportunities, so there’s no issue with Lloyd at all.

“Whatever rumours you’re hearing are likely from Fenerbahce and not from the player so I want to make that very clear and Lloyd’s an important part of what we’re doing.”