Newcastle plan free transfer raid on Premier League rivals after ‘extensively’ scouting two stars

2 weeks ago 21

NEWCASTLE are eyeing up a double swoop for Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo and Bournemouth centre-back Lloyd Kelly, according to reports.

Both players are out of contract at the end of the season and are understood to have been “scouted extensively” by Eddie Howe‘s men.

Newcastle have identified the pair as targets during a number of recruitment meetings over recent weeks.

No deals have been reached at this stage, but the idea of not having to pay a transfer fee is an attractive proposition for the Toon – who are short on money as they attempt to stay within profit and sustainability rules.

According to The Telegraph, the absence of both Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles for up to nine months means they are keen to bolster their central defensive options this summer.

But they will have a great deal of competition in their pursuit of ex-Manchester City man Adarabioyo – who is also being admired by Tottenham, Liverpool, West Ham and Manchester United.

Fulham also remain hopeful they can convince him to stay by making him one of their highest-paid players following a superb season.

Adarabioyo, 26, has played 131 games for the Cottagers since arriving four years ago for £2million.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth‘s Kelly, 25, is a versatile player that can fill in at left-back and centre-half.

He was first linked with a move to St James’ Park in January having been with Bournemouth since 2019 when he joined for £13m from Bristol City.

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But Newcastle are aware they will need to sell players while bringing others in.

Miguel Almiron, Sean Longstaff, Martin Dubravka, Matt Targett and Callum Wilson are among those that could be set to leave, along with Yankuba Minteh who has impressed on loan at Feyenoord.

Bruno Guimaraes is expected to stay, but Newcastle would be powerless to losing him if his £100m release clause was triggered.

Striker Alexander Isak, who has scored 21 goals this season, has also been linked with the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham.

Newcastle’s 4-0 win over Tottenham on Saturday moved them up to sixth and into pole position for a Europa League spot next season.