Journalist shares how West Ham feel about Newcastle target Harrison Ashby

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Newcastle United have been heavily linked with signing Harrison Ashby, but journalist Ben Jacobs believes that West Ham are keen to keep the defender.

The Magpies tried to sign Ashby during the summer transfer window, but were unable to agree a deal with the Hammers.

Now the 21-year-old is a rumoured target for Newcastle once again, with 90min claiming that he will move to St James’ Park at the start of 2023.

Those reports might be premature right now, but it is further evidence of Eddie Howe’s side planning for the future.

It has been claimed that Newcastle want to sign a young right-back, as they eye a future replacement for Kieran Trippier. As well as Ashby, the Magpies have also been linked with Cody Drameh and Ivan Fresneda.

Ashby fits the bill, and he is reportedly someone who West Ham rate incredibly highly.

Ben Jacobs on Harrison Ashby to Newcastle

Journalist Ben Jacobs has spoke to NUFC Matters on YouTube, and addressed the Magpies’ interest in Ashby.

“What I do understand is that there is no new contract at West Ham yet which is the big thing which is causing alarm there,” he said.

“Six months ago West Ham were confident on tying him down for the long run. From West Ham’s point of view they think he’s one of the most talented players to come through their academy system in quite some time.”

Jacobs went on to add: “The danger for Newcastle and there are other clubs looking at him, like Atleti, is that all of this can be used as leverage [in contract talks] and it is quite common for an agent to not think about it and let some time linger.

“They can then take counter offers to West Ham to get the best deal. West Ham will do everything possible to get him to sign a new possible deal but Newcastle are there for sure monitoring the situation.”

Newcastle could steal West Ham’s young star

West Ham are in a precarious position when it comes to Ashby. His contract is due to expire next summer, meaning they could lose him for a nominal fee.

Newcastle seem primed to pounce, and could steal one of their Premier League rivals’ emerging young stars.

If the Magpies can bring Ashby to St James’ Park, it will delight Sporting Director Dan Ashworth. He wants to be savvy in the transfer market, bringing in players who can develop into future first-team regulars.

Ashby has that potential, and is rated very highly by West Ham. They think he is one of the best talents to come out of their academy in years, which says a lot considering Declan Rice has developed into their captain after coming through their youth system.

But Ashby might not follow the same path that Rice has. Instead, he could be on his way to Newcastle. That is what Ashworth wants, and it will be interesting to see whether or not he gets his wish.