Newcastle United issue official response to Celtic transfer ‘enquiry’ claim for £15m player

Before the deadline on Thursday, Eddie Howe, the head coach of Newcastle United, swiftly put an end to one possible transfer out.

During the pre-game press conference on Monday, Howe was questioned by Sky Sports regarding whether Celtic had inquired about left-back Matt Targett. Due to a hamstring injury, the defender hasn’t played for Newcastle since November and has only started three games this year.

Howe shook his head and said, “No, that’s not right, you’re totally wrong. Matt has sustained an injury and has further recovery ahead of him. He plays a significant role in our work here as well.

And with a laugh, Howe said, “I think you’re making things up, to be honest!”

Targett left Aston Villa for Newcastle two years ago on a loan agreement that was later extended for £15 million in advance of the 2022–2023 campaign. Targett’s first half-season at St. James’ Park was crucial in helping The Magpies avoid relegation, but since then, he has been more of a supporting cast member as Dan Burn has been used frequently in left-back positions.

The 28-year-old has started just seven Premier League games since joining the team permanently. During his loan spell at Newcastle, he started 16 of the 17 games he played in, missing only one, which was against his parent club at the time, Aston Villa.

Howe stated to The Gazette regarding Targett’s injury: “He’s working his way back to fitness.” He’s running on the grass, not sprinting, so he’s still at 60 to 70 mph running speed, so he has some work ahead of him. He hasn’t started training with us yet.”

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