Leeds rival Newcastle United for Matt Targett

Leeds United are keeping tabs on Matt Targett’s situation and are ready to rival Newcastle United for the left-back’s signature.

According to 90Min, Leeds United are interested in Matt Targett and are keeping tabs on his situation heading into the summer window. Newcastle United are currently in pole position to sign the left-back, with an option to buy clause included in their loan agreement with Aston Villa.

Matt Targett has successfully played his way into Eddie Howe’s pans since his January loan move from Aston Villa, becoming one of the first names on the teamsheet at Newcastle United. The left-back has been a key part of the team that has staved off relegation fears and now sit comfortably in the mid-table.

There wasn’t much hope left for Targett at Aston Villa when Steven Gerrard decided to spend big on signing Lucas Digne from Everton in January. Targett, until that point, was the club’s undisputed first-choice left-back but decided to leave when the Frenchman joined.

Newcastle United swiftly made their move and secured the full-back on an initial loan move. The Magpies have an option to buy Targett, and are considering activating the clause sooner rather than later.

Embed from Getty Images

The report insists that both clubs have held discussions over Targett’s permanent signing, and it may take around £15 million to secure the left-back for next season and beyond. The 26-year-old would be open to moving to St. James Park in the summer, although there is further interest rising from elsewhere in the full-back.

Leeds United are reportedly keen on signing Targett. The idea may have stemmed from the fact that Newcastle United could be looking at another player in the same position. They were recently linked with a move for Atletico Madrid’s Renan Lodi, although the feasibility of such a transfer remains in question considering the Brazilian could cost around €50 million in the current market.

Leeds United are keen on finding a long-term solution to their problems at left-back. Junior Firpo is the only recognised player in the position and has often faced fitness concerns this term. New manager Jesse Marsch has preferred to play Stuart Dallas in the position, who is not a natural left-back.

The Whites will be hoping a move to Newcastle for Targett falls through, allowing them to take advantage of the situation and swoop in. It may seem unlikely as Newcastle could activate their option to buy clause at the earliest and make the Aston Villa man a permanent fixture in their squad.