Newcastle United could sign Harrison Ashby in January as Eddie Howe eyes a quality deputy to Kieran Trippier.
According to The Guardian, Newcastle United could sign Harrison Ashby during the January window. The 21-year-old defender currently plays for West Ham United, as the temptation of playing a much bigger role at a significant club could tempt the player into leaving the Hammers.
Newcastle United have shown ambition in the transfer market ever since the Saudi-based takeover concluded more than a year ago. The Magpies have since appointed Eddie Howe as their new manager, who has, in turn, used two transfer windows to make significant changes to the playing squad.
Last January, Newcastle United was one of the biggest spenders in the transfer window. Unlike the general expectations, the Magpies did not pay over the odds. Instead, spending only the correct value for every player, they brought in. They continued the trend and made further additions, which have helped the club climb into the third position.
While some significant first-team players remain on Howe’s agenda heading into the current window, the manager has a few ideas for recruitment. One involves bringing in a deputy right-back as cover for Kieran Trippier. Newcastle United remains linked with some names, but they are looking for a promising, young talent.
Malo Gusto is one of the names mentioned in the media stories, but West Ham’s Harrison Ashby is their reported target for the position. Howe needs help with the role, with Trippier the only one to play there. His actual deputy, Emil Krafth, is out for the season, while Javier Manquilo needs to be trusted enough to deputise.
Ashby has remained on their radar for a significant period, with the Magpies chasing the 21-year-old defender for at least six months. The Hammers had shown reluctance in allowing him to leave before, but the player may force their hand in the upcoming window.
Newcastle United could reportedly sign him on the cheap, although David Moyes was hoping to keep him for the long-term future. Ashby’s style of play currently needs to be suited to the Hammers but could prove helpful under Howe. There are plenty of games to play in the second half of the season, and having a player like the 21-year-old defender could become beneficial for the Magpies.
