Eddie Howe now faces a decision over the future of Matt Targett at St James’ Park as Newcastle United target the summer transfer of AC Milan left-back, Theo Hernandez.
That is according to Sky Sports, which reports that Howe is very likely to axe Targett already if Newcastle can sign Hernandez. The Magpies only completed a permanent transfer for the 27-year-old last summer. But Targett failed to retain a place ahead of Dan Burn on Tyneside.
Targett joined Newcastle permanently in June 2022 for £15m after spending the second half of the 2021/22 season on loan from Aston Villa. Yet Howe only started the left-back in six of his 17 Premier League appearances in 2022/23. Targett further only played for 602 minutes.
Targett faces an uncertain future as Newcastle eye Hernandez
Injury problems restricted Targett’s availability at points throughout his first full season with the Magpies. But Burn emerged as Howe’s undisputed first choice to ensure Targett did not have a way back. The 31-year-old regularly impressed with his grit and crucial interceptions.
Yet Howe is back in the market for a new left-back this summer. Gianluca Di Marzio reported earlier this week that Newcastle are now exploring the transfer from AC Milan of Hernandez. The Toon know it will be a difficult deal to negotiate, though, with Atletico Madrid also keen.
How much do AC Milan want to grant a transfer for Hernandez?
Reports by Gazzetta dello Sport earlier in June also listed Manchester United with an interest in Hernandez’s transfer. It also added that AC Milan value the 25-year-old at €60m (£51.5m). San Siro chiefs believe his value has tripled since paying Real Madrid €20m (£17m) in 2019.
AC Milan are loath to lose Hernandez as the full-back is a pillar of their line-up. His physique and technique, along with the goals and assists that the Frenchman offers, make the 17-cap star an essential player under Stefano Pioli. He offered four goals and five assists in 2022/23.
Hernandez featured in 45 of AC Milan’s 52 fixtures across all competitions in 22/23. He also played in six of France’s seven ties at the 2022 World Cup. While the wing-back’s displays at San Siro saw Mike Grella praise Hernandez on CBS Sports as a ‘superstar’ last September.
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