The terms of Matt Targett's season-long loan at Boro from Newcastle United include a release clause that enables Newcastle to prematurely end his stay at Middlesbrough. The clause was initially due to expire in the middle of the month, but Newcastle United extended the period in which they can trigger a recall. With the transfer window closing at 7pm on Monday, February 2, Newcastle will review the situation as Dan Burn attempts to complete his recovery from injury in approximately the next week. Matt Targett is described as happy at Middlesbrough, and Kim Hellberg is planning for Targett to remain an important part of his plans for the remainder of the season.

Newcastle United extended the deadline for recalling Matt Targett this month following discussions with Middlesbrough on Monday. Under the original agreement, Monday was the final day for Newcastle to recall the left-back from his season-long loan at Middlesbrough. Manager Eddie Howe said on Monday morning that they would make a decision very soon. Targett has been an important player in Middlesbrough's effort to gain promotion this season, and the club wants to retain him. He has also expressed his wish to stay after not playing regularly for the two years prior to this season. It is understood that Newcastle’s current preference is to respect the player’s wishes and leave him on Teesside. Newcastle could be compelled to act if their injury situation does not improve, as PSR constraints limit their ability to acquire new players in this month’s transfer window. Targett himself has been playing despite an injury since being substituted during the Boxing Day draw with Blackburn Rovers. Kim Hellberg praised the loanee for his commitment.

Matt Targett, a 29-year-old English defender, has joined Middlesbrough on a one-year loan from Newcastle United. The left-back, who boasts over 200 career appearances and substantial Premier League experience, is anticipated to bring quality and reliability to Rob Edwards' squad. Despite facing challenges in maintaining consistency in recent seasons, Targett, who was previously honored as Aston Villa's Players’ Player of the Year for the 2020/21 season, is seasoned in the Premier League and is expected to aid Middlesbrough in their quest for promotion. His arrival marks the club's seventh acquisition in what has been an ambitious transfer window, with the aim of elevating the team to compete at the top of the Championship. Targett's contract with his parent club, Newcastle United, is due to expire in June 2026, and his current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €5.00m.