Newcastle United are now ready to sanction a loan transfer for defender Jamal Lewis, with Matt Targett nearing a temporary deadline day switch to St James’ Park from Aston Villa.
That’s according to The Athletic [31/01, 12:37], who note Lewis is the subject of a wealth of late interest. A few bottom-half Premier League sides, plus clubs in the Championship are exploring the Northern Ireland international’s availability with his Toon place under threat.
Targett is due for a medical this afternoon ahead of sealing a half-season move to Tyneside. Sky Sports News’ Keith Downie reports a broad agreement is in place for the 26-year-old to join Eddie Howe’s side. He fell out of favour at Villa Park following Lucas Digne’s arrival.
Like Digne did to him at Aston Villa, Targett will likely now push Lewis toward the exit door at Newcastle with the Toon listening to offers for his temporary transfer. But the threat of improving a relegation rival is playing on the Magpies hierarchy’s mind on deadline day.
So, a move to the Championship is the most likely option to secure the 24-year-old regular game time. He has only featured in 29 Premier League games since finalising a £15m move from Norwich under Steve Bruce. The 2020 arrival can cost the Toon £20m after add-ons.
Lewis needs loan move to impress Newcastle ahead of Targett transfer
Of Lewis’ Premier League games for Newcastle, the in-demand full-back has only made five so far this season. He has also not featured in the top-flight since December 16, having failed to oust Matt Ritchie upon returning from a hamstring injury sustained at Liverpool.
Howe had praised the full-back after making his first outing of the term against Norwich in November. The 23-cap dynamo also appeared to prove himself as the Magpies’ first-choice until the injury sustained at Anfield. But may now have to return to those levels elsewhere.
“I thought he did very well in a game where we didn’t have much of the ball,” Howe said, via quotes by The Shields Gazette. “He’s obviously a real attacking left-back. He’s got great athleticism, and ability to go box to box.
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