Atletico Madrid defender Renan Lodi has reportedly emerged as a potential transfer target for Newcastle United.

Aston Villa loanee Matt Targett spent the second half of the campaign on the left-hand side of the Magpies backline, impressing during his 16 starts for the club.

With Newcastle having the option to sign the 26-year-old on a permanent basis, a full-time switch to St James' Park could materialise over the coming weeks.

However, according to The Chronicle, a transfer is not necessarily straightforward with the player in two minds over whether to relocate to the North East.

The report claims that Lodi could be signed as an alternative, the 24-year-old only regarded as a squad member at Wanda Metropolitano with 18 starts and 23 substitute appearances having been made in all competitions this campaign.

Although there is said to have been no contact between the two clubs, Lodi is allegedly open to moving to Newcastle should the opportunity arise. body check tags ::