Newcastle United’s £15m move in doubt as Aston Villa receive fresh interest
Matt Targett’s immediate future ahead of the summer transfer window has become uncertain as it has emerged Fulham have emerged as a viable destination for the left-back.
Aston Villa defender Targett left the club in the January transfer window after two and a half years to join Newcastle United. The Magpies, at the time, were struggling down the table but their winter reinforcements had the desired effect and Targett and co helped Eddie Howe lead them away from the peril of relegation.
Newcastle were expected to continue the loan spell, which appears to be a success at the moment, with the offer of a permanent deal for Targett this summer, but recent reports have cast doubt on it being that simple. that. initially looked.
Targett has played all seven games he was eligible for for the Toon – the odd game being against parent club Villa – and it is admitted that the ambitious Newcastle will have plenty of money to spend upgrading various departments in their squad. . during future transfer windows.
READ: Gerrard’s farewell message for Targett ahead of his move to Newcastle
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Previously reported to be lined up for a permanent £15million transfer, it is now suggested that Fulham – who appear to be running away with the league title at the moment and are preparing for an immediate return to the Premier League – could follow their lead. previous interest. with an offer to Villa once the domestic season is over.
Of course, amid links with a move for promising Scottish defender Aaron Hickey, it’s not impossible that Targett will return to Villa in time for next season and stay at the club. He signed a contract extension not too long ago which runs until the summer of 2025, so there are three years left to run on that deal from the end of this season.
Boss Steven Gerrard didn’t completely shut the door on him when he discussed Targett’s departure after the January transfer window closed. Indeed, he had been open to keeping the defender, despite the arrival of France international Lucas Digne from top-flight rivals Everton.
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“It was his decision,” confirmed Gerrard. “When we were linked with Lucas, I had a conversation with Matt. I said I would always be honest with him and I expected him to return it. I said if we signed a left-back, you tell me what you want You are free to challenge a new signing that comes along – I always like two people fighting for a position.
“Matt decided he had an opportunity he wanted to take and that’s where respect comes in and you don’t get in anyone’s way. I would have preferred him to stay and fight because he’s a very strong left-back in this league that’s why he had options but I can’t stand in anybody’s way unless I can guarantee him playing time that will satisfy him so that’s why it happened, but everyone should know it was Matt’s decision rather than push him in that direction.
“I would have been happy to keep him, but it paved the way for young Ben Chrisene – a really good prospect and we’re really excited to try to help him become a Premier League player.”
Fulham could still help fund Villa’s summer transfer plans should they move for Targett, but for now the former Southampton defender’s next destination – if away from Villa Park – looks uncertain.