AC Milan have emerged as a likely destination for Bournemouth central defender Lloyd Kelly, according to Italian news outlet Tuttosport.
The Serie A giants are eyeing a move for the former England under-21 international, who has also been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur.
They were keen on landing Kelly’s signature during the summer transfer window, but Bournemouth were reluctant to sanction his departure.
Tottenham launched a £20 million bid on deadline day, which was promptly rejected by the Cherries, who consider Kelly a vital part of their plans.
The 25-year-old has already featured seven times across all competitions for the Premier League strugglers this term and is capable of plying his trade in multiple defensive positions.
He is naturally a centre-half but has no problems slotting in at left back when required, and his versatility will undoubtedly come in handy to whichever club wins the race for his signature.
Kelly’s current deal with the Cherries runs out at the end of the season, and there is no prospect of an extended deal on the horizon, bolstering interest in his services.
The defender will be able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with any club of his choice in January, and Milan are strongly considering launching a move for the Englishman.
Jumping ship could be the right decision for the defender, considering Bournemouth are struggling to retain their Premier League status after picking up just one win from ten games this season.
AC Milan need to sign a centre-back with Pierre Kalulu and Marco Pellegrino expected to be sidelined for a significant period, and Kelly has emerged as a potential target.
Kalulu and Pellegrino sustained serious injuries in the entertaining 2-2 draw against Napoli, establishing the acquisition of a centre-back as a priority for the Rossoneri.
Milan chief scout Geoffrey Moncada reportedly scouted Kelly during Bournemouth’s 2-1 win over Burnley, and the idea is to snap him up on a free transfer when his contract runs out.
