Liverpool are set to look elsewhere for a replacement for Alberto Moreno, after Bristol City left-back Lloyd Kelly completed a £13 million move to Bournemouth.
The Reds were touted with an interest in Kelly in the early days of the summer transfer window, having scouted the 20-year-old on a number of occasions this season.
Kelly was considered as a possible deputy for Andy Robertson ahead of Moreno’s departure at the end of June, as the Spaniard’s contract expires on July 1.
This was reiterated by the Times‘ Paul Joyce as recently as Thursday, when he mentioned the Bristolian as a possible signing, although competition from Arsenal and Southampton was also claimed.
But Bournemouth have moved swiftly to get ahead of their Premier League as they announced a long-term deal to bring Kelly to Dean Court on Saturday afternoon:
Welcome to the club, Lloyd Kelly! ?#afcb ? pic.twitter.com/Q2YDzghheN
— AFC Bournemouth (@afcbournemouth) 18 May 2019
“It’s a fantastic club. The move has come around quite quickly, but I’m happy to be here and can’t wait to start playing,” the youngster said.
“Premier League football is what I’ve always wanted to achieve.
“I want to play as many games as possible and I feel like this is the right place for me to try and do that.”
Kelly’s comments hint at a late move from the Cherries, eager to move ahead of the likes of Liverpool, and also why he may have been against a switch to Anfield.
With Robertson firmly cemented as first-choice left-back, and still just 25, Kelly would have serve as the Scot’s backup which, as Moreno’s paltry five appearances this season prove, may not provide the game time he requires.
It remains to be seen where the Reds will turn, but the popular choice will be to promote under-23s standout Adam Lewis.
Bournemouth‘s move for Kelly could also have an impact on the future of Nathaniel Clyne, who spent the second half of the season on loan on the south coast and ended up being deployed at left-back.
Liverpool are seeking around £15 million for Clyne’s services, and West Ham may now be his more likely destination.
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