Newcastle United are closing in on the signings of Everton winger Anthony Gordon and West Ham right-back Harrison Ashby.
Speaking exclusively to NUFC Blog, FootballTransfers correspondents Jacque Talbot and Fraser Fletcher have revealed that both deals are close to completion after positive talks between the clubs this week.
It’s understood Newcastle have offered an initial £35m plus a further £15m in performance-related add-ons for Gordon; a proposal Everton are expected to accept.
The 21-year-old has his heart set on a move to St James’ Park and has been absent from training at Finch Farm over the past two days, with teammates on Merseyside aware of his seemingly imminent departure.
Harrison Ashby is also expected to join him on Tyneside before next Tuesday’s deadline, as Newcastle have held ‘positive’ talks with West Ham in recent days after seeing a bid rejected last week.
The Scotland U21 international has refused to sign a new deal at the London Stadium and is out of contract at the end of the season, meaning the Hammers will reluctantly cash in on the 21-year-old while they can this month.
With fellow target Ivan Fresneda expected to join either Arsenal or Borussia Dortmund in the coming days, Newcastle have turned their attention back to Ashby; who is looked after by the same agency that represents Eddie Howe.
Like Gordon, the 21-year-old is eager to sign but will be one for the future, with Howe believing he has the potential to be Kieran Trippier’s long-term replacement in years to come.
Starting with Gordon, here’s what Jacque Talbot told us about his impending arrival:
“Newcastle have launched a bid of £35m rising to £50m after potential add-ons.
“It’s my understanding that Everton will accept this offer and give Gordon the green light to head north for his medical in the coming days.
“He prefers a move to Newcastle over Chelsea – he’s been advised to avoid London by Ross Barkley – and is excited at the prospect of working under Eddie Howe.
“I’m told it’s now a ‘matter of time’ until he becomes a Newcastle United player.”
Speaking to NUFC Blog, FootballTransfers correspondent Fraser Fletcher had this to say on Ashby:
“Newcastle are back in talks with West Ham over talented defender Harrison Ashby, and talks are moving in a positive direction.
“The Scotland U21 International has refused a new deal at West Ham and is keen to move. A bid was rejected a week ago but the club are determined to land the 21-year-old full-back in this window.
“The right-back is a product of the West Ham youth system and seen as a very exciting young talent who “will be a premier league player”.
“Ashby would not be an immediate starter, but fits in with Newcastle’s search for young gems and could be one that flourishes under Howe in years to come.
“I expect a deal to be done before the window shuts and Newcastle to add another future star to their ranks.”
