Matt Targett’s Newcastle future could be decided within weeks as Eddie Howe prepares to hand the £15m defender one last chance in pre-season.
Newcastle United have been quiet this summer, but behind the scenes, plans are taking shape. While attention has centred on Anthony Elanga and Alexander Isak, another key decision looms — and it involves a forgotten name: Matt Targett.
The 29-year-old full-back has barely featured for the Magpies since signing permanently from Aston Villa in 2022. Now, with injuries sidelining Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall, Targett could get a rare start in upcoming friendlies against Celtic and Arsenal.
If he shines, he might force his way back into Howe’s plans. If not, his time on Tyneside could be up.
Why Targett Still Has a Slim Chance
After a strong loan spell in 2021/22, Newcastle paid £15m to make Targett’s move permanent. Back then, it looked like smart business — 16 games, 10 wins, and survival.
But since then, injuries have taken a heavy toll. With just 22 Premier League appearances across three seasons, and Dan Burn, Livramento, and Hall all leapfrogging him, Targett has become a squad afterthought.
Now, with Hall still recovering from injury and Livramento away with England U21s, the left-back might just get a final audition.
“Targett has one last chance to show what he’s got,” said a source close to the club. “This pre-season is make-or-break.”
Targett’s Struggles in Numbers
| Season | Appearances | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|
| 2024/25 | 2 | 19 |
| 2023/24 | 3 | 78 |
| 2022/23 | 17 | 603 |
| 2021/22 | 16 | 1440 |
The drop-off is clear. From a regular starter to just two appearances last season, Targett’s decline has been steep. But that final year on his contract might buy him a chance — or secure him a move.
Could Leeds Offer Targett a Lifeline?
Leeds United showed interest in January before sticking with Junior Firpo. But now, with Firpo likely to leave, Daniel Farke could reignite that interest.
Targett would bring 164 Premier League appearances and survival know-how — something Leeds will desperately need after promotion.
Analyst Verdict
Targett is running out of chances. But with Hall injured and Livramento away, he might just play himself back into relevance — or into a Leeds shirt. Howe won’t wait long.
Key Insights
- Targett could start vs Celtic and Arsenal
- Only 2 PL appearances last season
- Howe still open to offloading him
- Leeds interested as Firpo replacement
- 164 Premier League games under his belt
What’s Next?
Targett will likely feature in Newcastle’s July friendlies. If he performs, he could stay. If not, expect movement before the season starts.
Should Newcastle give Matt Targett one last run — or cut ties now? Let us know your verdict below!
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