Newcastle United deal 'agreed in principle' as Eddie Howe closes in on third summer signing

Newcastle United are hoping to finalise deals for Tosin Adarabioyo and Lloyd Kelly in the coming weeks.

Both players are out-of-contract at Fulham and AFC Bournemouth, respectively, next month after turning down improved terms. And the Magpies have swiftly opened dialogue with the expectation that both deals will be completed.

Adarabioyo was omitted Fulham’s squad for their remaining four matches of the 2023-24 Premier League season after informing the West London club be wouldn’t be staying.

The 26-year-old has made 126 appearances for the Cottagers, 78 of which have come in the Premier League, since joining from Manchester City four years ago. Manchester United have been linked with Adarabioyo, as have the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United but it’s understood the player is impressed by Eddie Howe and the club’s project.

Meanwhile, Howe is a long-term admirer of Kelly having signed him for Bournemouth from Bristol City for £13million in 2019. The 25-year-old, who has appeared 141 times for the Cherries, was captain when they were promoted back to the Premier League in 2021-22. He can also operate at both centre-back and left-back.

According to Sky Sports News’ Keith Downie, “many aspects of Tosin deal are agreed in principle” while talks between Newcastle and Kelly’s representatives are at an “advanced stage”. It is hoped both deals can be concluded early this summer. Their contracts officially expire at the end of June.

The arrival of both players will significantly bolster Howe’s defensive options with both Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles sidelined until late 2024 as they recover from an ACL injury. Meanwhile, Paul Dummett is out-of-contract, although could be offered a new deal - dependent on European qualification.

Lewis Hall is also set to join Newcastle on a permanent basis. The young left-back joined on loan from Chelsea last August and is understood to have triggered the performance related criteria to turn the move permanent.