Matt Targett was so impressive during his 16-match loan spell at Newcastle that the Tyneside club decided to make his transfer a permanent one. The black and whites have paid Aston Villa $15 million for the English left-back.It’s a shrewd piece of business for head coach Eddie Howe and newly-installed director of football Dan Ashworth, who signed a proven performer for a reasonable fee.The 26-year-old signed a four-year deal at St James’ Park. During his loan spell, Newcastle climbed up to 11th place despite looking certain to get relegated until late January.Thursday, 20.00: (2.90) Saudi Arabia (3.10) Venezuela (2.55)The former Southampton defender expressed of his joy to sign permanently for the club, adding that the Newcastle dressing room is probably the best dressing room he’s been in.”I’m absolutely over the moon to sign. I had such an enjoyable loan spell. The fans, the players, and the staff, they’ve all welcomed me, and I really loved my time here for sure. I’m glad I’ve extended for another four years. I spoke with the manager just before the last game of the season, and he said he wanted to sign me. About a week ago, we started to talk and quickly agreed upon everything.”St James’ is my permanent home 🤩 Over the moon to have signed for @NUFC. Was tough coming straight into a relegation battle but I’ve had the best time these last few months. Can’t wait to start pre-season with boys 😁Howay the Toon 🤍🖤 pic.twitter.com/GnHpaEByTC— Matt Targett (@Mattytargett) June 8, 2022 Newcastle don’t lack ambition after being taken over by the wealthy investment fund from Saudi Arabia. The fans are excited about the future, and it filters through to the players, which Targett confirmed to reporters in the city.”I think the whole feel-good factor around the club at the moment. When I come in the atmosphere in the ground every match day, even like after training, there are hundreds and hundreds of fans waiting outside the training grounds. It’s a really intense city for football, for sure. I’m so happy to be here.”Troubles for the filthy rich: Newcastle already connected to 54 playersIt’s going to be a busy couple of months in the northeast of England. Targett has arrived, while former Arsenal youngster Isaac Hayden left the club to join Norwich City on a season-long loan. That move also has an option of becoming permanent should performance-related conditions be met.
