Published May 29, 2026, 6:20 PM GMT+1

Emilio is an experienced football journalist who has worked at Football FanCast for over six years.

After graduating with first-class honours from the University of Central Lancashire in 2019, it didn't take long for Emilio to clinch his first job in journalism at Snack Media, now Valnet.

Emilio has written for a host of the company's biggest past and current football news websites - Vital Football, The Transfer Tavern and Football FanCast. 

Emilio's strengths include the intricacies of football transfers, while he particularly enjoys writing about the business side of football. He has covered Tottenham Hotspur on a weekly basis for a number of years now, developing a deep understanding of the culture and what Lilywhites fans engage with.

In his spare time, you can find Emilio travelling the world, or even in a boxing ring.

Middlesbrough were among the clubs affected, with evidence presented that Southampton staff had improperly gathered tactical information ahead of key fixtures.

The EFL confirmed Southampton had breached competition integrity rules, leading to severe punishment that included removal from the play-offs.

The decision sparked major reaction across English football and left Southampton facing another season in the Championship under difficult circumstances.

The scandal has also created uncertainty around the club internally.

Several senior figures have come under pressure following the investigation, while supporters are still waiting to see how heavily the controversy impacts Southampton’s transfer plans this summer.

One area expected to be prioritised is defence, particularly at left-back, and a familiar face has now emerged as a target.

Southampton battling Middlesbrough to re-sign Matt Targett

According to SportsBoom, Southampton are battling Middlesbrough to re-sign Newcastle defender Matt Targett, who is expected to leave St James’ Park on a free transfer this summer.

Everton, Leeds and Coventry City are also reportedly monitoring the situation as well, but the Saints and Boro's involvement adds a completely different layer.

For Southampton fans, Targett is a well-known figure.

The 30-year-old came through the club’s academy system and made his senior debut in 2014 before gradually establishing himself in the first team. He spent several years at St Mary’s and gained valuable Premier League experience before completing a permanent move to Aston Villa in 2019.

Since then, Targett has enjoyed a solid top-flight career.

After impressing at Villa, he joined Newcastle permanently in 2022 following a successful loan spell during the second half of the 2021/22 campaign.

Injuries limited his role more recently on Tyneside, but he remains respected for his defensive reliability, crossing ability and experience across both the Premier League and Championship.

Last season, he excelled on loan at Boro, where he rebuilt fitness and regular match sharpness. His performances there are believed to have convinced Boro to explore the possibility of bringing him back permanently this summer.

That has set up direct competition with Southampton, but SportsBoom report that Boro are the current favourites after already speaking to his representatives about an indefinite switch.

Boro view Targett as a dependable Championship-level defender with leadership qualities, particularly after working with him closely last season. Southampton, meanwhile, are understood to believe a return to his boyhood club could appeal emotionally to the player despite the turbulence currently surrounding St Mary’s.

Birmingham City's Ethan Laird in action with Newcastle United's Matt Targett

Financially, a free transfer would also suit Southampton’s likely approach this summer.

Missing out on promotion, especially in such dramatic circumstances, has placed greater pressure on the club’s finances heading into another Championship season.

Free agents and experienced lower-cost signings are expected to form a significant part of recruitment plans.

For Southampton, signing Targett would bring more than just experience. It would also provide a player who already understands the club and the expectations around St Mary’s during difficult moments.

Whether the scandal ultimately damages Southampton’s ability to attract players remains unclear, but after such a chaotic end to the season, the club know they must quickly rebuild stability both on and off the pitch.