The Athletic claim Newcastle are to pursue a deal to sign Aston Villa defender Matt Targett in the next 36 hours, before the deadline shuts. Targett has fallen down the pecking order at Villa, behind Lucas Digne.
Targett, 26, has been first choice at Villa since his move from Southampton in the summer of 2019. Clocking up 89 appearances in all competitions, there has even been talk that Targett could earn an England cap.
But the signing of Digne, a deal that has earned huge praise this month, has seen Targett sit on the bench in a 2-2 draw with Manchester United – and a 1-0 win over Everton. Targett could be tempted with a move this month.
With a day and a half remaining in the window, The Athletic report that Targett has emerged as an option for Newcastle. While a move is unlikely given there is less than 36 hours to go – it is one the Toon will pursue.
Targett to Newcastle: Villa defender and a centre-back needed
With Bruno Guimaraes coming in in midfield, Chris Wood and Kieran Trippier already on board and Brighton’s Dan Burn expected to join for £13million – Newcastle are likely to go after another central defender.
The report states that Eddie Howe also wants a left-back and while it is not a priority, it is a position that requires strengthening. The current options include injury prone Paul Dummett and Jamal Lewis.
The latter is yet to prove his £15million fee, while Matt Ritchie is a right-footed winger. Talks for Mitchel Bakker are ongoing, but struggling. It could be that £35k-a-week (Spotrac) Targett ends up at Tyneside in 36 hours.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
