Newcastle United ‘in talks’ to sign West Ham 21-year-old in light of fresh injury blow

Newcastle United are in talks to sign West Ham full-back Harrison Ashby in light of Emil Krafth’s long injury lay-off.

It was confirmed last week that Krafth would be sidelined for the next six to nine months after picking up an ACL injury during the 2-1 Carabao Cup win at Tranmere Rovers.

The Sweden international’s absence has left United a little light at right-back with Kieran Trippier and Javier Manquillo the only two options.

Howe recently stated a move for another full-back was not on the agenda. However, as per Sky Sports, talks are taking place over Ashby.

The 20-year-old is a Scotland under-21s international and has made six appearances for the Hammers since making his debut in August last year.

Ashby, who joined West Ham’s academy from Chelsea in 2010, has one-year remaining on his contract.

The player has been tipped for a bright future by David Moyes but is behind Vladimir Coufal and Ben Johnson in the pecking order.

On Krafth’s injury, Howe said: “It’s a massive blow for us.

“Emil has been superb for us on and off the pitch ever since I came to the football club in all sorts of ways, he’s a brilliant guy.

“We’re all really feeling for him at the moment. It’s an ACL injury, so he’ll be out for a number of months.”