Italian media turn - Newcastle United man labelled ‘embarrassing’ and ‘worst Juventus signing’ ever
Newcastle United are expected to sell Lloyd Kelly to Juventus permanently at the end of the season.
A prominent Italian journalist has labelled Lloyd Kelly as the worst signing in Juventus history.
Newcastle United signed the 26-year-old last summer from Bournemouth on a free transfer. Viewed as cover at left-back or centre-back, Kelly’s move to St James’ Park did not work out.
The defender - ironically bought by Eddie Howe at Bournemouth in 2019 - made just four Premier League starts before being shipped out on loan. A tight PSR situation left the Magpies with little option once Juve came calling.
Flipping a free transfer for £20million five months later has been viewed by supporters as a masterstroke. Newcastle have been tight for funds in recent windows and Kelly last featured in November’s 2-0 home defeat to West Ham United.
It should be noted that the permanent deal has not yet been completed and relies on Juve hitting specific stipulations. However, NewcastleWorld understands the criteria is set to be hit and Kelly should become a Juventus player this summer.
That is not expected to go down well with sections of the Italian media. La Gazzetta dello Sport already caned Kelly following his Champions League debut in February.
A notable Italian journalist, Cristiano Giuntoli, has torn into Kelly - hammering him as a “disastrous” signing. He told Football Italia: “Considering what they paid for him, I think he is the most disastrous signing in the history of Juventus.
“He is frankly embarrassing. I’ve seen him do things that we humans have never seen on a football field. Kelly is not reliable. The goal he allowed against Parma, at this level, was embarrassing.”
Lloyd Kelly was ‘excited’ about Juventus challenge
Whatever the local press think remains irrelevant as Kelly is expected to join permanently. Speaking after making his loan switch, the versatile defender admitted to being excited about the move.
“It’s an amazing feeling to be part of this club, you know, the history behind it,” Kelly told Juventus TV. “The club as a whole is huge in Italy, I think every player knows what it means to wear this jersey, and I’m representing this club.
“So I’m delighted to be here and just can’t wait to get started and hit the ground running, really. I’d describe myself as a player who wants to get on the ball, who loves defending - the one vs one duels, I thrive on those situations.
“I put my body on the line and as a defender, you want to keep clean sheets, so that’s another aim of mine. I’m someone who gives their full self in training and in games and I’m just looking forward to getting it started.”