Leeds United ‘open talks’ for Newcastle United flop as £11m sale agreed
Leeds United reportedly want to sign Matt Targett as they close in on a possible Premier League promotion.
A goalless draw with Burnley - a direct Championship rival - extended the Whites’ lead at the top of the table to two points. Sheffield United’s shock 3-0 home defeat to Hull City opened a window of opportunity for Leeds and the Clarets last night.
However, both clubs fired a blank to keep the nervous energy flowing as the promotion run-in approaches. Daniel Farke has welcomed no January additions to Elland Road but that could change - with The Athletic reporting Newcastle United outcast Targett as a possible option.
Just 11 minutes of Premier League action has made the 29-year-old surplus to requirements at St James’ Park. Targett arrived in January 2022 - initially on loan - and played a vital role as the Magpies survived relegation.
Toon chiefs agreed a permanent deal for £15million the following summer but the defender has seen little game time since. Bad luck with injuries resulted in Dan Burn usurping him at left-back, with Lewis Hall’s arrival sending him further down the pecking order.
Targett came out from the cold to start Newcastle’s 3-1 FA Cup win with Bromley earlier this month. He impressed, earning the highest score in our NewcastleWorld player ratings.
Leeds could now tempt the Magpies with a winter offer, although wages may prove a stumbling block. Sources suggest Targett is raking in up to £100,000 per week on Tyneside, with that lucrative contract running until 2026.
A loan move might suit the Whites but Newcastle would rather keep him in their ranks if they are paying the bulk of his wages. Sam Byram - a natural right-back - has deputised on the left-hand side at Elland Road for most of the season.
The Magpies are focused on outgoings as they aim to tread a tight FFP/PSR tightrope. Miguel Almiron’s £11million move to Atlanta United will be completed before the February 3 deadline.