Keith Downie reveals Dan Ashworth turned down the chance to sign Aston Villa player at Newcastle

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Newcastle United failed to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window in 2024.

It was not for the lack of trying, with Newcastle United heavily linked with signing Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City.

The midfielder looked likely to join at one point, only for Newcastle to opt against a deal for Phillips. PSR was the reason, with Toon officials deciding it was not worth the financial hit.

That was a smart decision, given how much Newcastle struggled to comply with PSR – and that was without putting any money towards a player like Phillips.

The Magpies held talks about signing the England international, but Phillips was not the only player who Dan Ashworth considered bringing to St James’ Park before departing his role as sporting director.

Newcastle United were offered Donyell Malen last year

That is according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, who has said on his YouTube channel that Ashworth discussed a deal for Donyell Malen last January after Newcastle United were offered the chance to sign the Dutch attacker from Borussia Dortmund.

“It is my understanding that he [Malen] was offered to Newcastle last January,” he said.

“There were some talks between Dan Ashworth, Borussia Dortmund and the player’s representatives, but nothing came of it and Newcastle decided not to bother – probably due to their PSR situation.”

Newcastle United pass again as Aston Villa sign Donyell Malen

According to Downie, Newcastle were offered the chance to sign Malen in 2024, but said no.

In 2025, that opportunity arose again. Geordie Boot Boys were recently told that Malen was offered to Newcastle United this month, but the outcome was the same.

While Newcastle opted against a deal for the Dutchman, Aston Villa said yes.

They took up Borussia Dortmund’s offer. Now Villa have signed Malen for an initial £21million. He has now joined Unai Emery’s side, which means Newcastle will quickly get the chance to see whether or not they made a mistake.

The Magpies desperately need another right winger, and Malen could have fit the bill. Instead, he will be plying his trade at Villa Park.

However, Newcastle must not be convinced that he is right for them, having turned him down two years in a row. Aston Villa will hope that Newcastle’s loss is their gain, as they aim to challenge the Magpies for a place in next season’s Champions League.