The Northern Echo can reveal the initial deadline for Newcastle to recall Targett was Monday, but that has now been extended. The new deadline is not known at this stage.

It comes after a scan on Livramento's hamstring injury revealed damage that will sideline the England international for up to eight weeks.

That leaves Newcastle with just four senior defenders available during what Eddie Howe previously described as a "season-defining month" for his side.

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But Newcastle are also aware that Targett is extremely happy at the Riverside. The 30-year-old wants to see out the season at Boro, where he's a hugely important player and essentially playing for his future as he approaches the end of his Newcastle contract this summer.

Howe hinted last week that Newcastle's preference was to allow Targett to stay at Boro when he said the Magpies must balance their situation with the "wants and needs" of the player.

Targett has also been playing through an injury in recent weeks having been forced off in the Boxing Day draw with Blackburn.

And Newcastle had the chance to activate their...