Matt Targett news confirmed as Middlesbrough & Derby County circle | OneFootball

Matt Targett's future at Newcastle United has become clearer as Middlesbrough and Derby County both circle the full-back this summer...

Matt Targett is a player with vast experience, having played for the likes of Newcastle United, Southampton, Fulham, and Aston Villa. However, a Championship return could be on the cards as Middlesbrough and Derby County circle.

It was Middlesbrough who had the full-back or wing-back on loan for 2025/26, with Matt Targett notching four goals and four assists in 45 Championship and play-off matches on loan from Newcastle United. That includes one against Derby County back in November as well.

They add to his goal and two assists in 21 Championship games back in 2017/18 with Fulham, but Targett has predominantly been a Premier League player since his breakthrough at St. Mary's with Southampton.

In 164 Premier League appearances, he managed three goals and 10 assists but he was not in Eddie Howe's plans for the current season after joining Newcastle back in January 2022 from Aston Villa on an initial loan.

A player of his calibre and experience is bound to have plenty of suitors in the Championship, with Middlesbrough and Derby County registering interest in Targett, per an exclusive report from Football League World.

Matt Targett decision made by Newcastle United as Derby and Boro eye move

After joining Newcastle on loan, Targett joined Newcastle permanently that summer on a four-year deal for a fee of around £15 million (BBC Sport). He went on to play 47 times for the Magpies, including two appearances in the Champions League.

Having fallen out of favour and struggled with injuries with just 12 appearances in two seasons in 2023/24 and 2024/25, Targett joined Boro on loan for the final season of his deal with the Magpies.

It's since been confirmed that Newcastle have allowed him to leave, meaning Derby and Middlesbrough can sign the defender on a free transfer this summer. Other clubs could yet be keen to strike a deal for someone of his experience.

Newcastle have outlined their released and retained list, with Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth departing the club upon the expiry of their contracts alongside Targett, John Ruddy, and Max Thompson. Aaron Ramsdale is headed back to St. Mary's too.

Targett was promoted out of the Championship in 2018 with Fulham via the play-offs, which is something both Derby and Middlesbrough are striving for in 2027.

Matt Targett's choice is not an easy one between Middlesbrough and Derby County

Now Targett is definitely leaving Newcastle permanently, a return to Middlesbrough may appear the more natural move given how successful his loan spell was. He is familiar with the club, the supporters. and the expectations, as well as Kim Hellberg's demanding style of play in possession.

While Boro know exactly what they would be getting from an experienced Championship left-back. That familiarity can be a major advantage when promotion is the objective again. However, John Eustace could also make a compelling case at Derby County if he sees Targett as a key part of his plans.

That said, ultimately, Middlesbrough probably feels the more likely destination because of the player's previous connection and the club's immediate ambition. The other aspect here is that Derby defend their box more, which is not getting the most out of his skill-set as a more technical full-back.