A former Newcastle United defender is being targeted by Championship clubs Norwich City and West Ham United.

West Ham United and Norwich City are reportedly keen to secure a deal for former Newcastle United defender Matt Targett after he left the Magpies last month.

The experienced left-back spent the majority of last season on loan at Championship neighbours Middlesbrough and confirmed his time as a Magpie would come to an end this summer as his contract came to a close.

Matt Targett was loaned out by Newcastle United last summer. | Jane Barlow/PA Wire

placeholder image — Matt Targett was loaned out by Newcastle United last summer. | Jane Barlow/PA Wire

Speaking earlier this year, Targett told Sky Sports .: “It was really important to me that I could come here [to Middlesbrough] and prove I can play a full season with no injuries. I had a chat with Eddie [Howe] in January and he was so understanding about my situation, so I thank him for that. He knew [staying at Middlesbrough] was beneficial for me and that I wanted to keep playing.

“The future? I’m not sure to be honest,” he added. “I believe I’m done at Newcastle so that chapter is closed. Hopefully we get promoted here (at Boro) and there will be a contract for me…but if not I’ve played as much as I can this season so I’ll assess my options.”

Boro’s Championship play-off final defeat against Hull City meant Targett left the club last month just weeks before Newcastle confirmed the former Aston Villa and Southampton defender was one of several players that would leave St James Park when their contracts came to an end. However, a recent report has claimed the left-back could be handed an opportunity to resume his career in the Championship after two of Boro’s second tier rivals were suggested as potential suitors for the free agent.

Football League World have reported West Ham United and Norwich City are both interest in Targett as they look to push for promotion into the Premier League during the new season. The Hammers are said to be considering a move for the former Magpies defender as doubt remains over El Hadji Malick Diouf’s long-term future at the London Stadium and there have also been suggestions they have Sheffield United star Harrison Burrows on their radar. Norwich are also said to be keen on Targett as they look for a more experienced head on the left-hand side of their backline with Ben Chrisene and Lucien Mahovo both under the age of 22.

Your next Newcastle United read: Newcastle United confirm quadruple deal days after signing 17-year-old to professional contract