"I'm sure" - Journalist drops big NUFC verdict involving Bruno and £27m-rated Brazilian target

Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes would give a “glowing reference” to his Brazil teammate Renan Lodi over a potential move to St James’ Park, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Amid suggestions that Eddie Howe’s side have reservations over signing Aston Villa defender Matt Targett on a permanent basis this summer, it appears the Magpies have cast their net a little wider in order to reinforce their left-back options.

Reports in recent days and weeks have claimed that Atletico’s Lodi has emerged as a potential target for the club’s new owners, and with his international compatriot Guimaraes already at the club, Newcastle could have a slight advantage.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, O’Rourke indicated that Guimaraes would have nothing but kind words to say about Newcastle to Lodi, and would impress upon him that the club are on the rise.

He said: “I’m sure if Lodi did consult Bruno Guimaraes about Newcastle, then Bruno would give a glowing reference of his time already at the club.

“He’d probably tell him about the huge ambition that Newcastle have got over the next couple of seasons and how they want to be up there competing for the top four, and challenging for trophies in the near future.”

The £70k-a-week earning star would arrive from Atletico Madrid as someone who has competed at the very highest level for a number of seasons now, challenging for both La Liga and the Champions League in his time at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Lodi’s performances this season in particular have caught the eye, with his match-winning brace against Celta Vigo back in February drawing praise from Atletico boss Diego Simeone.

He said: “Lodi is a hard-working, humble player who deserves all the praise and support.”

With 118 games under his