Express & Star

Aston Villa's Matt Targett close to £15 million Newcastle move

Matt Targett is close to completing a permanent move from Villa to Newcastle in a deal worth £15million.

Published

The 26-year-old moved to St James Park on loan back in January after Steven Gerrard bolstered his left-back options with the addition of Lucas Digne.

Targett's initial loan deal gave Newcastle the option to sign the defender on a permanent basis this summer. And Eddie Howe's side have now activated that clause.

Targett impressed in 16 outings for Newcastle last season with his arrival helping the team move out of the relegation zone and go on to secure an 11th placed finish.

As well as Newcastle, Fulham were also interested in signing the former Southampton man.