Newcastle sent transfer verdict on 'perfect fit' £15m target despite Steven Gerrard decision

Jose Enrique believes Matt Targett is the 'perfect fit' for Newcastle United at the moment but has questioned whether the club will make the move permanent this summer. The Aston Villa full-back has impressed in seven black-and-white appearances so far since signing on loan on January deadline day.

Newcastle have agreed an option for a £15m deal this summer, and Steven Gerrard is understood to already be assessing backup left-backs in the event of Targett's departure. The former Southampton defender and Eddie Howe have both so far refused to be drawn on talk of a permanent move, although the Magpies head coach confirmed the 26-year-old had been 'excellent' since making his mid-season move.

Former Newcastle favourite Enrique has praised Targett's impact on Tyneside so far and believes the club landed the 'right one' to address their problem left-back area. However, the ex-Magpies defender has cast doubts over whether Howe will look to make the move permanent despite already agreeing a fee with Aston Villa.

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Speaking on behalf of Genting Casino, Enrique told ChronicleLive: "It's a lot of money, people talk about £15m like it's nothing but it is a lot of money. Obviously, if that's what Newcastle want then they can afford it with these owners.

"But, maybe they can afford something bigger in the summer. You don't know, they've signed [Kieran] Trippier on the right side. With all of my respect to Matty, obviously he is not Trippier. That's the reality.

"He is a very good player and I really like him. It could be an option to sign him, but it could also be an option to sign someone bigger as well, and have two very good options at left-back.

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