Eddie Howe asked about Newcastle United summer transfer for Aston Villa star

Matt Targett is only two games into his Newcastle United loan spell, yet it feels like he’s been on Tyneside for much longer.

The left-back, a deadline day signing from Aston Villa, has slotted straight into Eddie Howe’s starting XI and excelled in doing so.

An outstanding debut against Everton was followed up at West Ham United on Saturday afternoon- with supporters left raving over his display.

It is understood there is no option to buy at the end of Targett’s loan spell but on current evidence, the Magpies could well explore a permanent move.

Will Newcastle look to sign Matt Targett in the summer?

Eddie Howe was asked about Targett’s performance at the London Stadium and whether he could look to sign the 26-year-old again in the summer.

“I thought Matty was very, very good today,” United’s head coach said.

“I think in the two performances he’s given, he’s been very, very confident and slipped into the team very impressively. He used the ball well, I thought he attacked well.

“He put a lot of balls in the box, and just his general, all-round game, his defending was of the highest level, in my opinion.”

What are the chances of Newcastle signing Targett?

Steven Gerrard wanted Targett to stay at Villa Park but respected the player’s wishes to leave and play regular football.

Gerrard said: “Matt decided he had an opportunity he wanted to pursue and that’s when the respect comes in and you don’t stand in anyone’s way.

“I would have preferred him to stay and fight as he is a really strong left-back in this league, which is why he had options.

“But I can’t stand in anyone’s way unless I can guarantee him game time that will satisfy him so that’s why it’s come about.

“Everyone needs to know it was Matt’s decision rather than him being pushed in that direction.”

Indeed, Targett was set to see his playing time limited following Lucas Digne’s arrival, although the Frenchman is yet to pull up any trees.

Should that continue then Gerrard could view Targett’s situation differently in the summer.

The former Southampton man appears to be enjoying life on Tyneside and could ultimately push for a move to St James’ Park.

But then it comes down to agreeing a fee, and it’s hard to predict what Villa will demand.

Certainly, based on his two performances so far, Targett is a solid Premier League full-back.