Newcastle United will almost certainly sign a left-back this summer, but who that is remains to be seen.
All eyes point to Matt Targett, who has had an exceptional loan spell at St James’ Park. However, there are rumours of a move for Atletico Madrid defender Renan Lodi.
The Magpies already have a Brazilian revolution going on with Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes, and now there is speculation that Lodi could join his fellow countrymen at St James’ Park.
TMW claimed at the start of May that Newcastle were readying a £21million for the 24-year-old. While that may or may not be true, the Chronicle have provided some new information the reports linking Lodi with the Toon.
They claim that he is on Newcastle’s radar, while Lodi’s representatives are interested in the current project at St James’ Park.
It’s no surprise to hear Lodi is keen on the Magpies given how well we’ve done in 2022. We’re suddenly capable of attracting big name players.
The biggest we’ve attracted so far is Bruno, and he’s had a magical start to life in black and white.
Renan Lodi to Newcastle would interest two current Toon players
If Lodi does move to St James’ Park, he’ll already have a couple of friends within the squad.
He played alongside Kieran Trippier at Atletico Madrid, with the Chronicle stating the pair remain friendly. Trippier has proven to be an excellent signing for the Magpies, and the defensive rigidness taught to him by Diego Simeone is exceptional.
Lodi also knows Newcastle’s biggest January signing Bruno Guimaraes. The duo played alongside each other at Athletico Paranaense. Bruno then took his talents to France, while Lodi ended up in Spain. But now there is speculation that they could be reunited in the North East of England.
Matt Targett would be a safer option
Personally, a move for Targett feels more likely. He’s been brilliant on loan, and can become a permanent Magpie for £15million.
He knows the Premier League and knows how to be a success in Eddie Howe’s team. He’s reliable.
In contrast, Lodi is an unknown quantity. Yes, he’s played 15 times for Brazil so he must be half decent. He would be an upgrade on Newcastle’s current number 13.
But given how well he’s done and how cheaply he can be acquired, it feels more likely that Howe will move for Targett over Lodi.
Of course, he could move for both. That can’t be ruled out either.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
