Newcastle United continue to show a keen interest in Atletico Madrid’s Renan Lodi – despite having a deal teed up for Aston Villa left back Matt Targett.
That’s according to Football Transfers, who claim that Newcastle are still chasing the signature of Lodi.
It’s stated that Newcastle did speak to Lodi’s representatives during the January transfer window but couldn’t push through a deal.
However, Newcastle haven’t backed away and still want to bring Lodi to St James’ Park this summer.
Atletico would allegedly want a fee of at least €50million (£42million) for Lodi, with Newcastle weighing up a big bid.
Lodi, 24, is predominantly a left back but has also played further forward with Atletico this season.
Lodi even scored the goal that dumped Manchester United out of the Champions League at Old Trafford.
Newcastle may have been watching that performance, only adding to their admiration of the Brazilian international.
Lodi to join up Newcastle star Guimaraes again?
A move to Newcastle would also see Lodi reunite with Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.
Lodi and Guimaraes played together at Atletico Paranaense in their native Brazil, featuring 39 times together according to Transfermarkt.
Their bond has remained strong even though they went their separate ways. Guimaraes admitted that he talks to Lodi ‘a lot’ and considered joining him at Atletico Madrid.
Guimaraes would almost certainly support a Newcastle move for Lodi – but the Magpies’ plans are unclear.
What about Matt Targett?
Newcastle have already agreed a fee with Aston Villa for the signing of Matt Targett. Targett joined Newcastle on loan in January and could stay permanently.
This latest report notes that, as things stand, Newcastle are looking at other left backs before committing to a £15million Targett deal.
Targett has been impressing for Newcastle but the Magpies may seemingly look towards Lodi first as they plan for the summer window.
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