Newcastle United are slowly getting into the act on the deadline day. The Magpies have started their season on an extremely poor note and will be desperate to turn things around.
According to reports, Rafael Benitez is planning to make a move for Southampton left back Matt Targett. The 21-year-old is being lined up as a replacement for Achraf Lazaar who is on his way out of the St James’ Park.
Targett has fallen down in the pecking order as Ryan Bertrand and Sam McQueen have been the preferred choice ahead of him. Meanwhile, at Newcastle, Paul Dummett’s injury in the first match has forced the Spanish gaffer to deploy Chancel Mbemba, who is basically a central defender, on the left side of the defence.
Newcastle’s urgency to sign a left back has compelled the club to look out for a short term option and Targett would be a very good choice for the Toon. Targett extended his stay at the St Mary’s by signing a new long term contract but Mauricio Pellegrino would be willing to let him leave to improve his game.
Though Bertrand, the English international has been the target of a number of clubs, the Saints are unlikely to allow him to leave so a move for Targett is on the cards.
McQueen is more of a winger than a natural left back and at times he has been caught out of position while doing his defensive duties. Targett doesn’t have that pace in him but he can make up for that with his resolute overlapping and pinpoint defending.
Targett was supposed to provide competition to Bertrand in the South Coast but a dreadful hamstring injury had almost put an end to his Saints’ career. However, he is now back from the injury and has been trying to get back his rhythm.
Sky Sports have claimed that the Magpies have enquired about a possible loan move for the 21-year-old. Targett is very highly rated at the St Mary’s but he is unlikely to get many chances this season so a move outside the St Mary’s makes sense.
Newcastle have been trying hard to agree on terms with the player and they should seal the deal today. With the left-back slot available till Dummett’s return, Targett will have a very good chance to impress at the St James’ Park and hopefully make the position his own.
