Newcastle United should move to sign Matt Targett on a permanent basis following a successful loan spell so far, according to Warren Barton. The former Magpies skipper also believes Eddie Howe needs to prioritise deals for a central midfielder and a forward in the summer.
The immediate priority for Newcastle remains preserving their top-flight status, with the head coach adamant the club remains in a relegation battle. The Magpies still have trips to relegation rivals Burnley and Norwich City to come, as well as testing clashes against title-chasers Liverpool and Manchester City.
However, following a January spend in excess of £90m, speculation has already begun to focus on the business Newcastle will aim to complete in the next transfer window. Barton has highlighted three areas he would like to see strengthened, and has pointed to Patrick Vieira's blueprint at Crystal Palace as a potential example to follow.
