Newcastle ‘to let Matt Targett join Leeds United’ as bid claim made
Matt Targett will be allowed to leave Newcastle for Leeds United if they follow through with their interest in the left-back, according to The Sun.
The newspaper reported in their print edition (29 January, page 46) that the Magpies won’t stand in Targett’s way if a suitable bid is submitted from Elland Road, after the Whites enquired about him on Tuesday [The Athletic, 28 January].
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is hesitant to lose players before the 3 February deadline, but due to his side being well-covered at left-back, Targett – a £12million arrival from Aston Villa in June 2022 – could be on the move should Leeds’ interest advance.
Matt Targett transfer would leave Leeds United fans puzzled
Daniel Farke has side time and time again this month that he and the Elland Road hierarchy are aiming for a “quiet window”, but that hasn’t stopped United fans from drawing up a wishlist of their own.
Illan Meslier’s shakiness between the sticks has led to calls for the Whites to sign a new goalkeeper, while the number nine and number 10 roles are also areas in which reinforcements would be welcomed.
Left-back, however, is not a position in which many supporters would foresee United needing to strengthen in this month, with at least three first-team options capable of stepping up to the plate.
Junior Firpo, when fit, is Farke’s first choice on the left side of defence, albeit Sam Byram has excelled in his absence and the lesser-spotted Isaac Schmidt is another option who can also play on both flanks.
Firpo’s contract expiring in the summer suggests a move for Targett would be one for the future, but with promotion being the first task, signing another left-back would leave fans scratching their hands.
In other Leeds news, one player’s displays at Elland Road have seen one journalist labelling him a “steal” given the price paid.
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