Matt Targett has made just 20 Premier League appearances since joining Newcastle United permanently almost two years ago
Newcastle United will listen to offers for high-earning defender Matt Targett this summer, according to reports.
Brought in as a stop-gap signing two years ago, the Magpies made an initial loan move permanent the following summer. Targett was essential in keeping Newcastle up during the early post-takeover days but has since seen little game time at St James’ Park.
The 28-year-old penned a four-year deal rumoured to be worth £100,000 per week in 2022 but has spent most of his time on the sidelines. Eddie Howe started the 2022-23 campaign with Targett at left-back but a dead leg after one game saw Dan Burn deputise in his place.
The Blyth-born defender never looked back as Newcastle stormed to fourth place – with Champions League football returning to Tyneside for the first time in 20 years. Targett was given a chance against Manchester United last November but suffered a season-ending injury 90 seconds in.
With highly-rated full-back Lewis Hall now proving his worth, Targett’s future at Newcastle appears in doubt. The Athletic claim Toon chiefs are open to selling the defender if a suitable offer is made.
As a former Fulham, Southampton and Aston Villa player, Targett has valuable Premier League experience. But he may need to compromise on the astronomical wages for first-team football – with the left-back among Newcastle’s highest earners.
Getting Targett – a £15million arrival less than two years ago – off the balance sheet would free up around £5.2million towards the FFP/PSR coffers. Every penny counts for Newcastle as they prepare for an exciting summer rebuild.
