Newcastle transfer news: Howe plans for West Ham gem Ashby revealed

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Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe sees Harrison Ashby having a big role in the future with his transfer from West Ham United. The Toon also have excellent relations with his agency.

That is according to Chronicle Live, which reports that Newcastle see Ashby as the backup target for Ivan Fresneda. The Toon have been in talks with the agent of the Real Valladolid gem during January. But the right-back has attracted further interest from around Europe.

Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund and Manchester United have spoken to representatives from Epic Sports of Portugal, which looks after Fresneda. So, Howe has sought out an alternative option and appreciates what Ashby can offer at St James’ Park, should he leave West Ham.

Newcastle are determined to sign an understudy for Kieran Trippier in January and believe Fresneda would be the ideal option. Yet given the wealth of suitors he has to choose from, the Magpies will now decide their stance on having any further discussions later this week.

Should the Toon feel Fresneda is now out of reach, Ashby’s name will receive greater focus during debates on Tyneside. Newcastle have an excellent relationship with the Wasserman agency, which represents the Hammers’ talent. It also looks after Magpies manager Howe.

Howe failed to seal Ashby’s transfer from West Ham to Newcastle last summer

Howe is driving Newcastle’s interest in Ashby’s potential transfer from West Ham as he is a fan of the full-back. He also feels the 21-year-old can take up a key role at St James’ and be a big part of his plans in the future. David Moyes is yet to be as forthcoming with minutes.

Ashby has so far only featured seven times for 365 minutes in the first-team at the London Stadium. Just two of his appearances have also come this term for 114 minutes and were in the Europa Conference League. He started in a qualifying tie before one Group B cameo.

Now, Newcastle could look to raid West Ham for Ashby having failed to secure his transfer last summer. Sky Sports recently reported that Howe failed to get a move over the line on Deadline Day. But the Toon’s admiration of the Scotland U21 prospect has not faded since.