Hull City sign Matt Targett on free transfer after play-off heartbreak

Hull City have completed the signing of left-back Matt Targett on a free transfer, with the 30-year-old agreeing a two-year contract at the MKM Stadium. Targett was available after being released by Newcastle United earlier this summer.

The defender joins Hull just weeks after facing them in the Championship play-off final while on loan at Middlesbrough. That match ended in a 1-0 defeat for Boro, with Oli McBurnie's stoppage-time goal sending Hull back to the Premier League.

Playing history and recent form

Targett made 45 appearances for Middlesbrough last season, scoring four goals and providing four assists. His performances helped Boro reach the play-off final, where they ultimately fell short. Prior to that, he spent time at Aston Villa and Newcastle, making over 100 Premier League appearances in total.

He becomes Hull's third signing of the summer window, following the arrival of goalkeeper Jack Butland from Rangers for £3m and academy recruit Ben Robinson from Preston North End. Butland's move saw Ivor Pandur head in the opposite direction for £6m.

Key points of the deal

• Two-year contract with Hull City
• Free transfer after Newcastle release
• Previously on loan at Middlesbrough (45 apps, 4 goals, 4 assists)
• Lost Championship play-off final to Hull 1-0 in May
• Third summer signing for the Tigers

Hull have been active in the market this summer, also selling striker Kyle Joseph to Middlesbrough for £4m and allowing Kasey Palmer to join Luton Town. The club is understood to be interested in Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey, who spent part of last season on loan at Roma.