Matt Targett will remain at Middlesbrough for the rest of the season after Newcastle United decided not to activate their recall clause before Monday's transfer deadline. Talks last week between the two clubs and Targett’s representatives resulted in Boro being confident that the 30-year-old would stay. Eddie Howe had said that it was something they would discuss until the deadline. Boro monitored the left-back market during the final week of the window in case they needed to find a replacement. Newcastle decided to honour the season-long agreement. The initial recall deadline had been January 12. Targett's contract at Newcastle expires at the end of the season, at which point he will become a free agent. It is currently uncertain if Boro will pursue a permanent deal at the end of the loan, due to Targett being on Premier League wages and Boro's uncertain divisional status for the next season.

The expectation is that Matt Targett will stay at Middlesbrough for the rest of the season, though Newcastle United have the option to recall him before Monday’s 7 pm deadline. This expectation is based on Newcastle’s improving injury situation since a recall was initially discussed. Staying at Middlesbrough will take him to the end of his contract at Newcastle, at which point he will become available on a free transfer. It is uncertain whether Middlesbrough will explore a permanent move for the 30-year-old, as his Newcastle wage is significantly higher than what the club could pay in the Championship.

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.