The Cherries defender has been linked with a move to Anfield in the last few months, but the Reds will have to fend off interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United.
Anfield Watch understands that strengthening the defence will be the priority for Liverpool in 2024, with a left-sided centre back high on the agenda. Kelly is a left-footed central defender also capable of playing left-back and, especially as a homegrown English talent, could be a perfect fit for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
While Kelly’s current deal with Bournemouth runs out next summer, meaning he would be available on a free transfer, Liverpool will have to pay £25-30m to sign the 25-year-old in January, according to Football Insider.
Bournemouth are resistant to selling Kelly in the winter window as they know that there is a strong chance they will be embroiled in a relegation battle come the latter stages of the season. With big clubs sniffing around the defender, the Cherries would only be willing to accept a significant offer in January.
Tottenham saw a £20m bid rejected for Kelly at the end of the last transfer window and Ange Postecoglou remains keen on bringing him to north London.
Spurs find themselves light in the centre-back department, with a new serious injury to summer signing and former Liverpool target Micky van de Ven perhaps forcing them into the market. But Liverpool will reportedly compete with the Lilywhites for Kelly’s signature.
Joel Matip’s contract runs out next summer, while Virgil van Dijk’s advanced age and Ibrahima Konate’s fitness issues mean that Klopp will be eager to add another elite centre-back to his squad.
The emergence of the promising Jarell Quansah has eased defensive concerns this season, but patience is required with the 20-year-old. Liverpool were expected to make a move for a defender last summer, but instead prioritised a complete midfield overhaul. However, a new centre-back is expected to arrive next year.
Another player the Reds have been frequently linked with is Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio, with the 22-year-old Portuguese reportedly having a £52m release clause in his contract.
Perhaps Kelly could be a more cost-effective alternative, while also helping Liverpool fulfil homegrown quota requirements.
Liverpool have been told how much they will need to cough up to sign centre-back Lloyd Kelly in the upcoming January transfer window.
