Targett should stay at Aston Villa

Matt Targett has an uncertain future at Aston Villa, as he’s currently on loan at Newcastle United after being surplus to requirements in the Midlands. But the 26-year-old may not be joining the Magpies permanently this summer, paving the way for a shock return to Bodymoor Heath.

Targett probably thought his time at Villa was up when Steven Gerrard signed Lucas Digne in January. The left-back was quickly replaced after an underwhelming half season but turned things around at Newcastle – 11 Premier League games, 26 tackles, 16 interceptions, 27 clearances, 14 aerial duels won, 16 chances, 52 crosses.

The Athletic say Eddie Howe isn’t sure whether to sign him for the agreed £15m fee, however, so Gerrard might have to deal with Targett next season. The uncapped Englishman opted against staying at Villa Park when Digne arrived, but he could change his mind in July.

Digne has started only two of Villa’s last six league games due to fitness woes and hasn’t impressed early on, so Gerrard’s gamble hasn’t paid off. Targett has shown he can play in the top-flight, so he shouldn’t be quickly offloaded at the end of the season.

In other news, Aston Villa should not sell Ollie Watkins this summer amid West Ham United interest