Newcastle United and West Ham are gearing up for a busy summer transfer window to address their setbacks from missing out on European football.
Newcastle ended the season in seventh place, which would typically secure a Europa Conference League spot. However, a stellar performance from Manchester United in the FA Cup final granted them the last European spot instead. Newcastle’s lack of squad depth, especially in defense, was a major issue throughout the season. Injuries to key players like Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, Kieran Trippier, and Nick Pope significantly hindered their ability to maintain clean sheets in recent months.
With Botman and Lascelles’ injuries likely to continue into the next season, it is crucial for Eddie Howe’s team to bolster their defense. They are reportedly close to signing free agent Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth. According to The Shields Gazette, Newcastle is nearing a deal to bring Kelly in on a free transfer when his contract expires on June 30. The outlet suggests that Howe’s connections with Bournemouth have been instrumental in securing Kelly, beating out competition from Liverpool and AC Milan.
Kelly’s potential arrival would be a significant boost for Newcastle, especially after missing out on Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo, who reportedly chose Chelsea over a move to St James’ Park.
Meanwhile, Spanish giants Atletico Madrid are pursuing a £20m deal for West Ham center-half Nayef Aguerd. The 28-year-old Moroccan, who joined West Ham for £30m in 2022, played a crucial role in their Europa Conference League victory in 2023. However, injuries and a dip in form have limited his first-team opportunities, resulting in just 21 league appearances in his second season. SunSport reports that Aguerd is keen on moving to La Liga, though his former club Rennes is also interested in re-signing him after his impressive stint at Roazhon Park.
Aston Villa, having reached the Champions League group stage, are looking to strengthen their squad with a move for Luton Town midfielder Ross Barkley. Barkley had a solid one-year loan spell with Villa during the 2020/21 season and has since shown signs of returning to top form at Kenilworth Road. The 30-year-old, familiar with Aston Villa and boasting extensive Premier League experience, could fit seamlessly into the team at Villa Park.
However, Football Insider reports that Everton, one of Barkley’s former clubs, might present a rival offer to bring him back to his boyhood team. Barkley, who joined Everton’s academy at age 12 and made his first-team debut six years later, became a key player for several seasons before transferring to Chelsea. The 33-time England international’s current contract at Kenilworth Road includes a 12-month extension option and a clause allowing him to leave for free following Luton’s relegation to the Championship. Despite this, Aston Villa are considered front-runners to sign Barkley, primarily due to his ambition to play in the Champions League next season.
