Matt Targett was always going to be in demand once his contract with Premier League club Newcastle United expired.

The left-back spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, where he scored eight goals in 45 games to help the club reach the Championship play-off final.

Targett had a rough time at the Magpies, making only 47 games in four and a half years due to injuries at St James’ Park.

According to Football League World, both West Ham and Norwich City were interested in the 30-year-old, but it appears he has decided to pursue other opportunities.

Hull City beat West Ham and Norwich City to the Matt Targett trade.

Given his influence at Riverside Stadium last season, Targett was bound to be widely watched this summer, and he had plenty of options.

West Ham are preparing for life in the Championship and are anticipated to lose numerous players, so obtaining men with significant experience is critical, which explains their interest in Targett.

Norwich City had a promising conclusion to the season under Philippe Clement and will be aiming for a play-off finish at the very least next season, with the 30-year-old a key figure in achieving that goal.

However, it appears that recently promoted Hull City have beaten the pair, with Radio Humberside’s Mike White reporting that the defender has joined the Tigers on a free transfer.

Furthermore, White adds that the Englishman has signed a two-year contract with the Premier League club and will join the team in Slovenia.

https://x.com/mikewhitesport/status/2078783167574503584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2078783167574503584%7Ctwgr%5E9ef02a635f20e978a4b5d02e093744b4be650d81%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Ffootballleagueworld.co.uk%2Fwest-ham-norwich-city-matt-targett-hull-city-transfer-blow%2F

What are the next steps for the Hammers and Canaries in their left-back pursuit?

Losing Targett would have been a setback considering his expertise and recent championship pedigree, but numerous free agents remain available.

Dennis Cirkin stood out as the top choice. The 24-year-old’s contract with Sunderland expired at the end of June, and he has an impressive track record in the second division.

He started the Black Cats’ promotion campaign in a starring position and displayed his enormous attacking skills in Regis Le Bris’ side, getting forward at practically every opportunity.

He will most likely be in demand, although both West Ham and Norwich are appealing options for comparable reasons.

Beyond Cirkin, Tyrell Malacia is an appealing possibility, but he comes with clear risks following an injury-plagued season at Manchester United.

Both teams have less than a month until the season begins and may want to pick up their search of left-backs if they want to be ready in time for kickoff in mid-August.