At one point in time, it looked like Renan Lodi could join Newcastle this summer.
A St James’ Park return for Matt Targett was suddenly less likely, and speculation surrounding another Brazilian recruit intensified.
The Chronicle reported that Lodi’s camp were interested in a move to the North East, intrigued by the new project following the change of ownership.
A move to Newcastle would have seen Lodi reunited with Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier, who he played with at Athletico Paranaense and Atletico Madrid respectively.
Newcastle’s interest in the defender grew, as rumours stated Eddie Howe wanted a more attacking left-back than Targett.
But the Toon boss eventually decided to re-sign the 26-year-old, turning his loan deal into a permanent transfer. He arrived from Aston Villa for a total fee of £15million, signing a four-year deal with the Magpies.
Renan Lodi won’t join Newcastle this summer
Following the arrival of Targett, we speculated that Lodi wouldn’t be heading to Tyneside this summer. And ESPN believe that is the case.
They report that the 24-year-old held talks about a move, but has now completely ruled out joining Newcastle this summer.
He’ll remain at Atletico Madrid for now, although there is interest from elsewhere. With the World Cup on the horizon this winter, he’s keen to play more regular football to guarantee his place in the Brazil squad.
However, he won’t be getting minutes at St James’ Park.
Magpies don’t need Lodi now
While he would have been an exciting signing, a move for Lodi know wouldn’t make any sense.
Newcastle have decided to bring Targett back for a decent fee, and they also have plenty of options in reserve. Jamal Lewis and Paul Dummett are left-backs, while Trippier has proven for England that he can operate on his opposite flank. So can Javi Manquillo.
Lodi would have been a big-name signing. Adding another Brazil international to the team would have been a real statement.
But re-signing Targett makes more sense. He’s suited to this Newcastle team, and his conservative approach blends well with the maverick stylings of Allan Saint-Maximin in front of him.
He’s a great player, but Newcastle simply don’t need Renan Lodi this summer.
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