Aston Villa not interested in Everton man, Targett’s Newcastle delight ramps up left-back search

Aston Villa will not be pursuing a move for Everton forward and Brazil international Richarlison, BirminghamWorld understands.

That’s amid recent paper-talk linking the 25-year-old with a transfer to Villa Park, though it all seems to have been a case of two and two equalling five.

A number of bookmakers have had Villa as favourites to sign the Brazilian for the last couple of weeks but BirminghamWorld have been told that the club have no interest in making a move for the wantaway striker.

The claret and blue are however still looking to bolster their forward ranks as Steven Gerrard aims to add more goals to his side and a move for former Liverpool and Barcelona man Luis Suarez is still a possibility.

Matt Targett completes move to Newcastle United

Villa’s 2020/21 players’ player of the season completed a move to St James’ Park on Wednesday in a deal believed to be worth in the region of £12million.

Targett lost his place in the starting eleven following the arrival of Lucas Digne in January and in turn was immediately loaned out to the Magpies.

After enjoying a successful spell in the North East, the 26-year-old was able to make the move permanent this summer and couldn’t hide his joy in doing so on social media.

“St James’ is my permanent home,” he posted on Twitter.

“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.”

Targett exit ramps up left-back search

The permanent departure of Targett does however mean Villa are now extremely light on the left side of defence.

Ashley Young often deputised when Digne picked up knocks but with his contract situation not yet resolved, it could be a case of calling to the youngsters if a new face isn’t added there.

The Express & Star report that the search is well underway to find an understudy to the French international and that ‘several targets’ have already been identified.

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