Newcastle complete loan transfer for left-back Matt Targett from Aston Villa after Lucas Digne’s arrival from Everton

NEWCASTLE have completed the signing of left-back Matt Targett on loan until the end of the season. 

Aston Villa were happy to let him leave after signing Lucas Digne from Everton.

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And the Magpies have an option to sign Targett permanently in the summer. 

Targett, 26, said: “I'm delighted to be here. I can't wait to get going and meet all the fans and hopefully we can have a successful end to the season.

“My family have friends here and they've always said it's a football-mad city, so to experience it and be part of it - I'm really looking forward to it.”

Toon boss Eddie Howe added: “We have gone into this transfer window with a plan to add strong competition in specific areas of the team and Matt will be a fantastic option for us on the left.

“He has important Premier League experience and know-how at this level, so I'm really pleased we've been able to add him to the squad.”

Full-back Targett became available after Villa sealed a £25million deal for Digne earlier this month.

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Toon boss Howe had been desperate to improve his defence as his team battle against the drop.

Targett started 17 of Villa's 21 Prem games so far this term but had been left on the bench for their last two outings.

He remains under contract at Villa Park until 2025 unless Newcastle make his move permanent in the summer.

The former Southampton ace joins a host of new signings at St James' Park.

Kieran Trippier became the first arrival of the Saudi era when he joined from Atletico Madrid.

The right-back has since been joined by Burnley striker Chris Wood and Lyon ace Bruno Guimaraes.

Newcastle are also hoping to land teenager Hugo Ekitike from Reims.

The 19-year-old forward could arrive for a fee rising to £33m but a deal remains in the balance.

Ekitike has scored eight goals in 18 Ligue 1 appearances this season.

Howe's men are 18th in the table having won just twice all season.

But they did pick up three points last time out, beating Leeds 1-0 at Elland Road.

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