Newcastle United ‘in talks’ to seal deadline day move for Premier League full-back

Newcastle United are reportedly in talks to sign Aston Villa left-back Matt Targett on loan for the remainder of the season.

While the centre of defence is top priority for the Magpies on deadline day, Eddie Howe is also open to strengthening other areas of his backline.

A deal for Bayer Leverkusen’s Mitchel Bakker was explored, though the potential transfer has collapsed twice after talks were initially re-ignited.

And according to reports, United have switched their attention to Targett after they were encouraged that a loan move could be completed.

The arrival of Lucas Digne, an early January target for Newcastle, at Villa Park is set to reduce Targett’s playing, with Steven Gerrard deciding whether or not to sanction a temporary exit.

Howe’s side have until 11pm tonight to finalise their January transfer business - both ins and outs.

Newcastle are looking to wrap up a deal for Brighton and Hove Albion defender Dan Burn after agreeing a fee on Saturday night.

And it would be wrong to rule out arrivals in other positions too as United’s recruitment team seek to give Howe & Co the best chance of achieving Premier League survival.

Jeff Hendrick is linked with a loan move to Tyne-Tees rivals Middlesbrough, while Freddie Woodman could join Bournemouth until the end of the campaign.

Elliot Anderson, admired by Luton Town and Matty Longstaff, recalled from his season-long loan at Aberdeen, could also depart on a temporary basis.