Matt Targett Set For Newcastle Exit As Six Clubs Battle For Free Transfer

Matt Targett's Newcastle United adventure is coming to an end. 

The 30-year-old English left-back has found himself at the centre of one of this summer's most compelling free transfer stories. 

His contract expires this summer, and Targett will depart Eddie Howe's squad without any transfer fee changing hands. 

According to SportsBoom, Middlesbrough, Derby County, Southampton, Coventry City, Leeds United and Everton are all keeping close tabs on Targett's situation. 

The financial advantage of a free transfer is the primary reason such a crowded field of suitors has formed. Getting a quality, experienced player for zero transfer outlay is an attractive proposition for any club.

Targett spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough before recently returning to Newcastle. That spell on Teesside was enormously valuable for him. The performances he produced in Middlesbrough colours convinced both the club and rival onlookers alike. His return to Newcastle does not signal permanence. Every sign points towards a major departure this summer.

Middlesbrough: The Early Advantage Sits on Teesside

The strongest candidate in this race is unquestionably Middlesbrough, and the club are determined to bring Targett in permanently this summer. 

The chemistry and trust between the manager and the player built during last season's loan spell is already there. 

Finding an experienced left-back who contributes both defensively and in attack, and who knows the league inside out, is never straightforward. Targett is the exact answer to that brief.

According to sources close to SportsBoom, Middlesbrough are treating this as a priority signing and have already initiated early contact with Targett's camp. The positive experience of the loan spell provides a strong foundation for this transfer.

Derby County and Southampton Look to Compete

Derby County have entered the race and will look to place a serious obstacle in Middlesbrough's path. 

Derby wants to solve the left-back position permanently this summer. Targett's extensive pedigree and top-flight background are well-suited to meeting that need. The free transfer element fits perfectly within Derby's budget planning.

Southampton represent the most emotionally charged dimension of this race. Targett began his professional career in Saints colours. A return to St Mary's carries both symbolic and practical meaning. Southampton are in the process of rebuilding this summer and are looking for a solution at left-back. Getting a player who knows the club and came through its academy for zero transfer cost is an extremely attractive option. 

SportsBoom can exclusively reveal that Southampton have held internal discussions about Targett's transfer and are treating a return as a genuine possibility.

The Premier League Connection with Coventry, Leeds and Everton

Frank Lampard's Coventry City are also on the list following their promotion to the Premier League. 

SportsBoom have been told that Coventry emerges as a serious option should Targett be able to find the regular game time he is looking for. Lampard is searching for an experienced and reliable profile in that position to solidify his newly promoted squad. Targett's stance on personal terms will play a decisive role in this race.

Leeds United and Everton's involvement adds further weight to the Premier League contingent monitoring this file. Both clubs are understood to be planning changes at left-back this summer. Leeds want to strengthen their squad and prioritise experienced names in transfers of this kind. Targett's top-level football background could answer Elland Road's needs perfectly.

On the Everton front, a different motivation is at work. The Toffees are looking for cost-effective solutions to balance their squad. A free left-back option fits that search perfectly.