EDDIE Howe outlined why he believes Lloyd Kelly will be a "great addition" after the defender completed his move to Newcastle United.

The 25-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-year deal at St James' Park after leaving Bournemouth this summer. He will officially link up with the Magpies on July 1.

Howe and Kelly worked together at Bournemouth and the versatile defender is thrilled to once again link-up with United's head coach.

The signing is an early breakthrough for Newcastle, who were disappointed at missing out on Tosin Adarabioyo to Chelsea but are delighted with the capture of Kelly, who has long been identified as a primary summer target.

The former England Under-21 international can play at centre-half or left-back and will bolster a defensive department that lost both Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles to serious knee injuries in the second half of last season.

Delighted Howe said: “I’m really pleased to have secured Lloyd’s signature. He’s a player who’s proven himself at Premier League level and I’m certain he’ll be a great addition as we prepare for the new season.

“Lloyd is a player I’ve admired since the early stages of his career. Alongside his undoubted defensive ability, he brings versatility and leadership qualities that I believe will make him a great fit within our squad and somebody our supporters will quickly take to.

“He has plenty of Premier League experience already under his belt, yet Lloyd’s at an age where he can still develop. He has a lot of potential and I’m really looking forward to working with him again.”

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Kelly, who will wear the number 25 shirt, said: “It's amazing to be coming here. I know how big the club is and how much it means to all the fans, and I just want to hit the ground running and get to work.

“It’s a big move for myself and the family - of course being down south is a bit different - but I think the city of Newcastle is amazing, with the contrast between city life and the countryside

“It wasn't a hard decision for me to come here. Working with the gaffer previously, I know what he wants from his players and how he wants his players to play, and I think with what I can bring it just makes sense. I just can't wait to get started.”

With the Kelly transfer now finalised, Newcastle will focus their attention on Burnley's James Trafford, who is now firmly established as their number one goalkeeping target.