Newcastle United are reportedly now 'expected' to sign Matt Targett by the 'start of July'.

The Lowdown: Decision pending

Speaking in his pre-game press conference ahead of their match at home to Liverpool at Saturday lunchtime, Eddie Howe has claimed that there have been 'no discussions' with Aston Villa with regards to signing Targett on a permanent deal, but they will make a decision 'at the end of the season'.

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/newcastle-news-6/" title="Newcastle news!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]

There have been reports that a deal is 'close', but as things stand he will be returning to Villa Park after his loan spell ends.

The Latest: 'Expected' to sign

Writing in a Q&A session for The Birmingham Mail, reliable journalist Ashley Preece has revealed that a deal for Targett to go to St. James' Park permanently is 'expected' to go through as soon as the summer window begins.

Villa can then pursue a move for left-back Aaron Hickey: "Club will wait for Targett to tie up £15m Newcastle move (expected to go through start of July) before progressing to sign Hickey."

The Verdict: Get it done

If the North East club can sign Targett for just £15m, they simply need to get it done.

Hailed as 'top class' by Villa manager Steven Gerrard, the Englishman has been a revelation with his performances on loan, as he has not missed a single minute under Eddie Howe, except of course when they played his parent club (Transfermarkt).

He has instantly become a fan favourite on Tyneside, so much so that 97.5% of supporters want him to stay.

Nonetheless, bringing Targett in permanently seems like a smart piece of business.

In other news, find out who NUFC now face a Premier League battle to sign here!