Former Aston Villa defender Matt Targett is set to join newly-promoted Premier League side Hull City after his release from Newcastle United. The left-back, who spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, will remain in the top flight following the Tigers' promotion via the Championship play-off final.
Targett's Journey from Villa to Newcastle
Targett was a popular figure at Villa Park after joining from Southampton in summer 2019 for a reported fee following Villa's promotion to the Premier League. He was a consistent performer for the club, but his playing time diminished when then-manager Steven Gerrard brought in Lucas Digne from Everton in a £25 million deal. Seeking first-team football, Targett moved to Newcastle United in a £15 million transfer in January 2022.
He impressed during an initial loan spell at St James' Park, leading Newcastle to make the move permanent. However, after a season and a half, he was deemed surplus to requirements and joined Middlesbrough on loan for the 2025-26 campaign.
Loan Spell at Middlesbrough
At Middlesbrough, Targett played a crucial role in their run to the Championship play-off final. However, his time at the Riverside Stadium ended in disappointment as Boro lost 1-0 to Hull City at Wembley, condemning Kim Hellberg's side to another season in the Championship. Despite being highly-regarded on Teesside, his Premier League wages were a factor in the club not opting to pursue a permanent deal.
According to sources close to the player, Targett's move to Hull City is expected to be finalized in the coming days, with the defender signing a contract that will keep him at the MKM Stadium for the next two seasons.
Impact on Hull City
Hull City, who secured promotion back to the Premier League after a two-year absence, will benefit from Targett's top-flight experience. The 30-year-old has made over 150 Premier League appearances for Southampton, Aston Villa, and Newcastle. His arrival will bolster the Tigers' defensive options as they look to establish themselves in the top division.
Targett's former Aston Villa teammate and current Hull City manager, Liam Rosenior, is said to have been instrumental in convincing the defender to join. Rosenior, who played alongside Targett at Villa Park, has been building a squad capable of competing in the Premier League.
