Former West Ham man set for Newcastle United summer link-up ahead of transfer decision

After injury restricted him to just 16 appearances at Swansea City last season, Ashby was loaned back to the Championship and this time linked up with QPR.

The 23-year-old started as a regular in the Rs’ line-up but fell out of favour in January. Ashby then had to wait three months for his next league start.

Once Ashby was reintroduced into the team, he managed to nail down his position and finish the remaining five games of the campaign strongly.

Ashby made 31 appearances in total and claimed one assist, which came in QPR’s 1-0 final day win at Sunderland on Saturday afternoon.

Issuing a farewell message on Instagram, Ashby wrote: “Where to even start. From the players, the staff, the fans and everyone involved at @officialqpr, I couldn’t tell you all how much I’ve loved my time here and how welcome you’ve made me feel from the start.

“There’s been ups and downs like every season in football but the club always pulled through.I wish everyone involved at the club my best wishes moving forward and good luck for next year🤍💙”

What’s next for Harrison Ashby at Newcastle United?

Ashby will enjoy a period of rest before returning to Newcastle for pre-season ahead of the 2025-26 campaign. It is then that Eddie Howe and his coaches will assess the defender and decide on his next steps.

The Milton Keynes-born player joined Newcastle from West Ham United in January 2023 for £3million. He was unveiled on the pitch at St James’ Park alongside £45m recruit Anthony Gordon moments before kick-off in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg tie against Southampton.

Ashby has featured in a handful of friendly matches for the club, scoring in a 2-1 win at Rangers in July 2023, but is yet to make his competition debut having only appeared in the matchday squad twice.

As it stands, Ashby is behind Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth in the right-back pecking order.

There are again suggestions Trippier, who turns 35 in September, could depart this summer but Eddie Howe is keen for the former England international to stay.

Should Trippier stay as hoped, it is likely Ashby will depart again, either on loan or perhaps permanently, depending on how Magpies chiefs view his long-term future.

YOUR NEXT READ: 'Will be out' - Chelsea dealt fresh injury blow ahead of crunch Newcastle United clash.