Described as Luke Shaw’s long-term replacement, high-flying Southampton’s 19-year-old Matt Targett is just getting used to life in the spotlight. Having been at the club since the age of eight, he has come through the academy and Under-21 ranks, and is now looking to a secure a spot in the first team on a regular basis.
Already an England under-20 international, the young full-back is beginning to show signs that he has an extremely promising career ahead. Recent performances have triggered keen interest from the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool to name but a few.
Unfortunately for the big guns of English football, it seems they will have to wait a little longer to secure the starlets services.
Targett’s agent Leon Callender said: ‘We are in discussions over a new contract. He is in the right place.’
The Saints young star made his debut for the club in the Capital One Cup second round tie against Millwall in August, and also impressed against Arsenal this week.
He has been promised playing time in Southampton’s first team this season by new boss Ronald Koeman, but is behind in the pecking order to Ryan Bertrand. His chance to shine will surely come soon.
Targett is another product of the excellent Southampton academy, and with the recent sale of Shaw to Manchester United for £27m in June and other academy graduates Adam Lallana and Calum Chambers going to Liverpool and Arsenal respectively, Saints fans will be hoping that they keep hold of this bright young player for a little longer.
Written by Michael Horne
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