Back in January, Newcastle benefitted from a very harsh decision involving Steven Gerrard and Matt Targett at Premier League rivals Aston Villa.
Despite winning the Players’ Player of the Year award for his efforts last season, the 26-year-old was swiftly replaced by Lucas Digne, and shipped out on loan to Tyneside.
Since then, the £15m man has been a sensation at St James’ Park under Eddie Howe, although now, lighting could be about to strike twice for Targett in heartbreaking fashion.
What’s the story?
Well, according to some outlets, Newcastle are hoping to bring Atlético Madrid left-back Renan Lodi to the Premier League.
Should that move materialise, we’re not exactly sure what the future will hold for Targett – it wouldn’t be good news, to say the least.
Lodi is currently playing regular Champions League football at the Wanda Metropolitano, so if he did leave for Newcastle, he would surely demand to start.
You may argue that this wouldn’t be Newcastle’s problem, as Targett is returning to Villa Park once his loan spell ends.
However, it has been said that a fee has already been agreed ahead of a permanent deal, so the Englishman could suffer the pain of being replaced again next season.
Newcastle should trust Matt Targett
In our view, Newcastle shouldn’t sign Lodi.
Targett has been exquisite since he arrived on Tyneside, and we see no reason why money should be wasted on an upgrade.
There are other areas Howe needs to strengthen before he should focus on the left-back department, such as in goal, and also at centre-back.
In our view, the signing of Lodi would be a vanity move from Newcastle, as they look to spend their newfound riches.
If Targett is replaced by Lodi this summer, then he would have every right to be furious with Howe.
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