Journalist Jacque Talbot has revealed that moves for Renan Lodi AND Matt Targett “could happen” after both left-backs have been linked with summer moves to St James’ Park.
Targett, on loan from Aston Villa, has quickly become a fan favourite after just six months in the team – he even had his name sung by the Gallowgate end after our victory over Arsenal.
A deal worth around £15million has been rumoured to be available, although Villa manager Steven Gerrard has claimed that he will remain one of his payers for the time being and his future will be decided in due course.
On the other hand, Renan Lodi of Atletico Madrid and former teammate of Kieran Trippier could also be on his way – he’s been named a surprise target in recent weeks – suggesting a double left-back signing could yet be on the way.
It’s interesting that Lodi is more of a LWB who can also operate as a left midfielder, meaning he’s a much more forward thinking option alongside Targett and someone who could allow Howe to play a three-man defence with wing-backs, if required.
The Brazilian has previously played on the left-wing for his Spanish side, scoring three goals from that position.
Time will tell, but Targett and Lodi could certainly add some quality and strength in depth down our left flank – which has been in need of some big improvements for a long time.
Bringing in 2 left backs seems a bit of a stretch seeing as the club has been making so much noise about Dummett signing a new contract.
BykerBill(Quote)
TO BE FAIR DUMMET WONT BE THERE FOREVER AND IN MY OPINION IS JUST COVER.
LEFT BACK IS A PROBLEMATIC POSITION FOR US, SO TO HAVE 2 PLAYERS WHO CAN BOTH FILL THE GAP HAS TO BE A BONUS. A STRIKER, A PROPER GET THE GOALS STRIKER HAS TO BE PRIORITY, YET THE DEFENCE NEEDS STRENGTH AND DEPTH TO COMPETE , AS I HOPE WE WILL IN THE UPCOMING SEASON.
WE COULD SIGN BOTH FOR THE PRICE OF ONE BASICALLY SO IT MAKES SENSE. A CENTRAL DEFENDER, A STRONG ATTACKING MIDFIELDER AND A PROVEN STRIKER IN THE SUMMER WINDOW WOULD BE GOOD BUSINESS.
HAWAY THE TOON! ONWARDS AND UPWARDS
Geordie(Quote)
Would appear to be a sensable option and play both especially when playing the big six teams away from home. Use a wing back system with three centre halves making it a five which hopefully will stop us getting hammerings at Spurs and Man City as what happened this season.
Huw Davirs(Quote)