Aston Villa transfer target ‘undergoing medical’ at Everton with Matt Targett exit to be confirmed imminently

One time Aston Villa transfer target James Tarkowski has arrived on Merseyside for a medical with Everton, the Athletic report.

The Burnley centre-back was tipped as late as last week to be on his way to Villa Park but the arrival of Diego Carlos combined with a number of other factors saw Steven Gerrard steer away from the England defender and move onto other targets.

With the names Gerrard has already brought through the door, it’s hard not to trust him with the decision not to follow through with this one.

Tarkowski may have been available on a free but the manager will not be bullied with incomings whether that be on transfer fees, salaries or contract length and ultimately it’s not a target many seem too disappointed about not landing.

Villa now have Carlos, Ezri Konsa, Tyrone Mings, Kortney Hause and Calum Chambers on their books at centre-back whilst Boubacar Kamara is also able to slot in there if needs be.

With that said, it’s believed the club are still after a left-sided defender and if they are to add one, it could allow room for Hause to leave.

Matt Targett completes move to Newcastle United

Another deal all but completed today sees an exit in the form of Matt Targett.

The left-back is set to join Newcastle United on a four-year deal after impressing during his loan spell last season.

The 26-year-old has been pictured having photos outside St James’ Park with fans of the Toon Army prior to the confirmation of the deal today.

It’s a transfer that will land Villa around £12million to put towards more reinforcements as Gerrard continues to bolster his new-look claret and blue squad.

Targett leaves Villa having been a main-stay in the squad since their return to the Premier League in 2019.

He made 89 appearances and was voted the club’s players’ player of the season at the end of the 20/21 season.

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