Newcastle United are waiting on a response from West Ham United over a deadline day move for right-back Harrison Ashby, according to Daily Mail journalist Craig Hope.
The Lowdown: Career so far…
The 20-year-old has been tipped for a bright future after bagging two goals and eight assists in 31 Premier League 2 appearances for the Hammers youth sides.
With such promise at academy level, the U21 Scotland international has been handed six senior appearances for West Ham, having made his Premier League debut back in March.
Ashby even featured once for the Irons during their impressive Europa League run last season.
The Latest: Hope’s news
With Emil Krafth out for several months after suffering a serious knee injury, Newcastle are keen on signing Ashby as a direct replacement.
Hope has shared an update on the Magpies’ pursuit, with the club hoping to get a deal over the line before tonight’s 11pm deadline.
Taking to Twitter, the reliable journalist claimed:
“Newcastle are waiting for a response from West Ham re Harrison Ashby & would like to do a deal today. For now, that is the only move they are pursuing. #nufc”
The Verdict: Promising talent
With Krafth out injured for a considerable amount of time, it is imperative Newcastle bring in another right-back to St James’ Park before the transfer deadline, otherwise leaving Kieran Trippier without an understudy for months.
Therefore, Ashby's proposed move to Tyneside could be brilliant for the youngster's development, as he would be learning from an experienced professional and would likely get plenty of playing time with fixtures coming thick and fast.
West Ham U21 coach Dmitri Halajko previously singled out the ‘real quality’ of the 20-year-old after an impressive EFL Trophy display.
And in truth it was surprising that Ashby’s Irons contract was allowed to get down to the final 12 months, with the Irons triggering a one-year extension only to take him to 2023.
The talented full-back clearly has the potential to succeed at the highest level for years to come, so if the Magpies can secure this move for a cut-price, this would be a shrewd bit of business for Newcastle.