Newcastle United sign Matt Targett on a permanent £15m deal from Aston Villa after left back impresses on loan this season

Newcastle United have completed the permanent signing of Matt Targett from Aston Villa for a fee of £15million.

The defender joined the Magpies on loan in January, helping the club out of the bottom three to finish well clear of relegation in 11th place in the Premier League.

Newcastle have triggered the option in Targett’s loan deal to make the move permanent, making him the first signing of what is expected to be a busy summer on Tyneside.

The 26-year-old started his career at Southampton, before moving to Aston Villa in 2019 and he made 89 appearances during his time at Villa Park.

Targett had no hesitation in making the move permanent after a successful loan spell, signing a four-year deal with the club.

Matt Targett ‘delighted’ to sign permanently

He said: ‘I’m absolutely delighted to sign a four-year contract with this club.

‘For me, it was an easy decision to make the loan permanent after the welcome I had from my fellow players, the staff, the supporters and the owners so I’m really happy to be here.’

Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe added: ‘Matt had a fantastic impact after joining on loan in January and made a big contribution to some excellent team performances.

‘He is a great lad and a top professional who undoubtedly makes us stronger so I’m delighted he sees his future here.’