Newcastle will make Matt Targett Middlesbrough decision 'very soon'

Targett is currently on loan at the Riverside, where he's due to see out the season, which will take him to the end of his current contract with the Magpies.

Newcastle have the option of recalling Targett this month but it must be triggered before a certain date - which is not currently known. Cut-offs in loan recall clauses are common to ensure the club losing the player has the opportunity to sign a replacement.

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With Newcastle suffering a number of defensive setbacks in recent weeks, Howe confirmed last month that recalling Targett was being considered ahead of the January window.

But last week Newcastle's head coach hinted that Targett would see out the season at Boro when he told of the importance of taking into account "the player's wants and needs". Targett is playing regularly, is a key player at Boro and is understood to be thoroughly enjoying his time on Teesside.

But Newcastle were then dealt another major injury blow at the weekend when Tino Livramento was forced off against Bournemouth in the FA Cup with a hamstring injury.

The Magpies will discover the full extent of that injury in the next 24 hours, with Livramento due to have a scan today.

The results of that scan could have an impact on Newcastle's decision on Targett.

Howe said today: "I believe there's a cut-off point but I think Ross [Wilson, sporting director] has been in regular dialogue with Matt's agent. We'll make a decision on that very soon."

Boro boss Kim Hellberg is desperate to keep Targett.

He said last week: "I think he's been brilliant and the way he has covered at centre-backm, then obviously playing left-back.

"What a top guy and what a human being. So yeah, I want him to stay."