By Ritchie Slack @Slack_9
Goal correspondent Neil Jones has today linked relegation-battling Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly with a potential move to Liverpool Football Club.
Liverpool have been rumoured to delve into the transfer market this summer, but only for the right price and the right player; could Lloyd Kelly fit that bill?
In my opinion: absolutely.
Versatility Across The Backline
The England U21 international could not only fill a slot that Andy Robertson currently occupies at left back, but the 21-year-old has also featured for The Cherries at CB this season. With rumours linking the long serving Dejan Lovren with a move away from Merseyside this summer, Lloyd Kelly would be seen as a versatile player who could operate in two positions where cover would be needed.
Neco Williams has played at left back this season, as has James Milner when Robertson has sat out, but neither are specialised in the left back role, with Williams (at present) stronger in the right fullback position and Milner’s natural position in midfield.
Fits FSG’s Transfer Model
Kelly’s versatility and youth will make him an attractive prospect for Fenway Sports Group and could potentially move if Bournemouth have the unfortunate fate of being relegated. The former Bristol City man has been on Liverpool’s radar before he signed for the south coast club for £13million in 2019, but now he has Premier League experience behind him to add to his ever-growing and impressive CV.
Combining this with some solid performances this season in a red and black shirt, the time could be now to move on this exciting and adaptable prospect who you could imagine would thrive under the tutelage of Jurgen Klopp. Although he has only featured six times for Bournemouth this season, he has shown quality and prospective talent when given the opportunity and will only improve under the right guidance and leadership.
Liverpool have a decent habit of plucking potential stars from relegated teams: Andy Robertson and Gini Wijnaldum have established themselves as first team players when Hull City and Newcastle United couldn’t avoid the drop, Xherdan Shaqiri joined from a relegated Stoke side and has been an important player when fit, does destiny now call on Kelly to do the same?
