Celtic learn truth over loan move for Newcastle United £15m star

Celtic have not made a loan enquiry for Newcastle United left-back Matt Targett, Eddie Howe has confirmed.

Howe sat down with the media on Monday morning ahead of tonight's Premier League clash away to Aston Villa with a lot of questions aimed in the direction of transfers.

The Magpies' boss was asked about the possibility of Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron departing before Thursday's 11pm deadline and if Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey was of interest.

He was also asked if Celtic had made an approach regarding Targett, who has been sidelined since November after undergoing hamstring surgery.

A perplexed Howe responded: "No, incorrect, you're way off. Matt is injured and has still got some way to go in his injury. He's also a big part of what we're doing here." He then laughed: "I think you're making things up, to be honest!"

Targett has made three appearances this season and started just seven times in total since moving to St James' Park on a permanent basis in the summer of 2022 for £15million from Aston Villa.

The 28-year-old initially joined United on loan midway through the 2021-22 campaign and played every game available as the club retained its Premier League status.

Injuries at the start of last season saw Dan Burn deployed at left-back, and the Blyth-born defender has since kept his place. United also recruited Lewis Hall from Chelsea last summer.

Targett is expected to return to action in late February or early March. On his injury, Howe recently said: "He's working his way back to fitness. He's on the grass, he's running, he's not training with us yet, he's not sprinting so he's still at 60, 70% running speed so he's still got a bit to go."