Fulham dealt transfer blow as Newcastle United near deal for 26-year-old

Fulham are set to be dealt a blow ahead of the transfer market opening on Friday, with Newcastle United close to agreeing a deal for Aston Villa defender Matt Targett.

That is according to the Daily Mail, who are reporting that the Magpies are now looking to take up their option to sign the defender permanently following his loan spell at St. James’ Park.

In recent weeks, it was reported that Newcastle were indecisive about their next steps with regards to Targett, despite the left-back putting in some good performances during his temporary spell in black and white.

With plenty of financial resources at their disposal following their takeover, the club were said to be exploring more glamorous options, with Atletico Madrid’s Renan Lodi mentioned as a potential preferred signing.

Fulham were preparing to swoop in if Newcastle did not exercise their option to purchase Targett.

The 26-year-old made 16 Premier League appearances for the Magpies since joining them on loan, contributing to an overall defensive improvement at the club that helped steer them clear of relegation.

This is a shame for Fulham as it really seemed that Newcastle United were not going to make Targett’s move permanent.

However, with Antonee Robinson and Joe Bryan already on the books at Craven Cottage, the left-back position is certainly not a priority for the club this summer.

In fact, they could probably spend the money they would have used on Targett elsewhere in positions that are in need of urgent additions, such as right-back.

Neco Williams could be an option for a similar price, and he is a known quantity given he spent half the season on loan at the club as they won the Championship and promotion.

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