Exclusive: Everton and Leeds to battle for player set to leave Newcastle on summer free

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(Credit: Imago) Wed 22 April 2026 10:31, UK Matt Targett is keen to remain in the Premier League this summer amid interest from Everton and Leeds United, sources have told Football Insider.The left-back is expected to leave Newcastle United on a free transfer at the end of the season, and he is set to pay serious consideration to any offers that would allow him to remain in the top flight. Targett is expected to have plenty of options available to him this summer, given that he has already notched four goals and three assists in the Championship this term.

Leeds’ transfer plans are set to see them add further depth to their squad to consolidate themselves in the Premier League again next term, and the 30-year-old is seen as ideal cover for Gabriel Gudmundsson. 🔄 Leeds United Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Elland Road boardroom. VISIT THE LEEDS TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Middlesbrough also set to have a say in Matt Targett raceTargett’s likely availability is already seeing him attract interest from several different clubs, and that will only grow when his departure from Newcastle is sealed.

Gudmundsson (PL)StatsTargett (Championship)31 (30)Apps (Starts)39 (37)–G/A70.71Chances Created per 901.571.34Successful Dribbles per 900.172.23Tackles per 901.436.01Duels Won per 903.16Gudmundsson’s 2025-26 stats compared to Targett’s, as per Fotmob.Kim Hellberg’s side still have a chance of becoming a Premier League team themselves next term, as they are just three points adrift of the automatic promotion places heading into their final three games. Football Insider revealed on Monday that the Teesiders have already made it clear that they would “love” to keep Targett permanently, even if they remain in the second tier next term.