Report: Leeds interested in signing Newcastle loanee Matt Targett

By Jordan Harris

Leeds United are interested in signing Matt Targett this summer, but 90min reports that he wants to sign permanently for Newcastle United.

Targett is currently on loan at St James’ Park from Aston Villa. His arrival came about after the Villans signed Lucas Digne in a surprise move during the January transfer window.

90min reports that Newcastle and Villa have something of an agreement in place that would allow the Magpies to make his move permanent for around £15 million. And his preferred option would be to sign for Newcastle.

However, there are rivals for his signature. 90min reports that Leeds are battling the likes of Leicester City and Wolves for the 26-year-old.

Matt Targett could be a very smart signing for Leeds – if deal is at all possible

Left-back is one area Leeds really need to strengthen this summer. Junior Firpo has endured a really tough first season at Elland Road. And Stuart Dallas has not been in the best form in recent weeks. It does appear that the new system can leave makeshift full-backs more exposed.

It does seem more than likely that Targett will join Newcastle permanently. Eddie Howe has previously described him as ‘fantastic‘.

But if there is a chance that Leeds could sneak in at any stage, it could be a brilliant move from the Whites – provided that they stay in the Premier League.

He has proved that he is good enough for the top-flight. And if he is available for £15 million, he is not going to eat up all of Leeds’ budget by any means.

It is certainly a worthwhile plan to keep an eye on developments in case Newcastle ultimately opt against keeping Targett.