The short answer
Matt Targett, a 30-year-old left-back, has joined Hull City on a free transfer after his contract with Newcastle United expired. Targett initially joined Newcastle on loan from Aston Villa in January 2022, playing a key role in their Premier League survival. He made the move permanent that summer for a reported £15 million. However, he fell out of favor under manager Eddie Howe, making only 13 appearances last season. Hull City, who lost the Championship play-off final to Southampton, have signed him to bolster their defense for the upcoming season.Why it’s trending
The transfer is trending because Targett was a high-profile signing for Newcastle just two years ago, and his move to a Championship club represents a significant step down. Additionally, Hull City's recent play-off final loss adds context to their need for experienced players.
Matt Targett has signed for Hull City on a free transfer, the Championship club announced on Friday. The left-back, 30, was released by Newcastle United at the end of last season after his contract expired. Targett's move to Hull comes after the club narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premier League, losing the Championship play-off final to Southampton.
According to BBC Sport, Targett has agreed a three-year deal with Hull. The Mag reports that Targett was one of several players released by Newcastle this summer as part of a squad overhaul. talkSPORT notes that Targett's move is particularly notable as he played against Hull in the 2023 Championship play-off final while on loan at Middlesbrough, a match Hull lost 1-0.
Targett's career has seen a rapid decline since his £15 million permanent move to Newcastle in 2022. He was a key figure in Newcastle's survival under Eddie Howe but lost his place to Dan Burn and later Lewis Hall. Last season, he made just 13 appearances across all competitions, with his last Premier League start coming in December 2023.
For Hull, Targett brings Premier League experience and a left-back option as they aim for promotion. The club has been active in the transfer window, and Targett's signing is seen as a statement of intent. However, questions remain about his form and fitness after a difficult spell at Newcastle.
Timeline
- Targett joins Newcastle on loan
Matt Targett joined Newcastle United on loan from Aston Villa, helping the club avoid relegation from the Premier League.
- Permanent move to Newcastle
Targett signed a permanent deal with Newcastle for a reported £15 million after impressing on loan.
- Newcastle release Targett
Newcastle announced that Targett would be released at the end of his contract, along with several other players.
- Targett signs for Hull City
Hull City confirmed the signing of Matt Targett on a free transfer, with a three-year contract.
Questions people ask
Why did Matt Targett leave Newcastle?
Targett was released by Newcastle after his contract expired. He fell out of favor under manager Eddie Howe, making only 13 appearances last season.
What position does Matt Targett play?
He is a left-back, but can also play as a left wing-back.
How much did Hull pay for Targett?
Hull signed Targett on a free transfer, as his contract with Newcastle had expired.
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