Everton have joined Leeds in the race to sign the former Aston Villa star who is set to leave the club

Everton have joined Leeds in the race to sign the former Aston Villa star who is set to leave the club, according to reports.

The Toffees are preparing for another crucial summer under David Moyes after a season that showed signs of progress but fizzled out in the final weeks of the campaign.

They finished 13th in the Premier League after briefly threatening to push for the top half and even flirted with the chance of qualifying for Europe.

Moyes helped stabilize the club following his return to Merseyside in January 2025, and there is still hope that Everton can continue to push forward with a strong squad next season.

Recruitment is expected to focus heavily on adding depth and experience, particularly in defence, with John Stones among the big names on their radar.

They could also move forward, with soon-to-be free agent Solly March linked this week.

Everton’s form dipped badly towards the end of the season, with the team ending the campaign on a seven-match winless run, revealing concerns about the team’s balance and consistency.

The left back is one of the areas that could be updated during the window, especially as Moyes is reportedly looking to add reliable Premier League experience to his squad.

That may explain why Everton are now in the race for Newcastle defender Matt Targett.

Everton have joined Leeds in the race to sign Matt Target

According to SportsBoom, Everton are among the clubs interested in signing the 30-year-old this summer, with Leeds and newly promoted Coventry City also in the running.

Targett is set to leave Newcastle on a free transfer when his contract expires.

The defender is well known in Premier League circles after playing for Southampton, Aston Villa and Newcastle.

Although injuries interrupted parts of his time on Tyneside, Targett remains highly regarded for his experience, defensive reliability and ability to get into wide areas.

Before joining Newcastle permanently in 2022, he enjoyed a strong spell at Aston Villa, where he became a regular starter and helped the club establish themselves in the top flight under Dean Smith.

He later impressed during an initial loan spell with Newcastle, convincing the club to complete a permanent move.

However, his opportunities have become increasingly rare in recent seasons as Newcastle strengthen their squad and face strong competition for places.

Targett spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, where he rebuilt his momentum with regular football in the Championship. Reports suggest that his performances there have revived interest from several clubs looking for experienced defenders available without a transfer fee.

For Everton, the attraction is obvious.

The club is still expected to be financially prudent despite greater stability under The Friedkin Group, meaning free transfers and cheap deals may remain an important part of their recruitment strategy.

Targett’s Premier League experience and versatility will make him an added threat down low.

Competition can still be intense, however.

Leeds are believed to be closely monitoring the situation as they prepare for their second season back in the Premier League. Newly promoted Coventry City are also reported to be interested, although Everton’s top-flight form and Moyes’ reputation could strengthen their position if negotiations go well.

Moyes has valued reliable and experienced defenders throughout his managerial career, and Targett fits that profile naturally.

Everton also know they need more depth if they are to avoid another season drifting after promising form.

While Targett may not be viewed as a headline signing, deals like this could still be crucial to Everton’s wider rebuild.