Aston Villa and Middlesbrough linked with Matt Targett
Southampton defender Matt Targett is reportedly being lined up by Championship duo Middlesbrough and Aston Villa ahead of respective loan moves.
The Saints youngster was courted by Fulham throughout the summer transfer window but the Cottagers’ offers were rebuffed. This led Slavisa Jokanovic’s side to recruit Joe Bryan from Bristol City on the final day of the window.
Nevertheless, Targett appears to still be on the radar of several clubs, with a report from the Yorkshire Post indicating that both Middlesbrough and Aston Villa would be keen on taking the left-back on a season-long loan deal.
Targett impressed during Southampton’s pre-season campaign but has not yet made a Premier League appearance in Saints’ opening two fixtures against Burnley and Everton.
It’s believed that Saints would prefer to keep hold of Targett but with Ryan Bertrand the clear first-choice in this position, it seems a loan move could be something that is considered by the club’s hierarchy.
Southampton are well-stocked with options on the left-hand side of defence, with Mark Hughes having Bertrand, Targett and Sam McQueen at his disposal.