Newcastle close in on West Ham full-back; Eddie Howe hails Jonjo Shelvey ahead of possible exit
- Seb Sternik
- 30 January 2023
Transfer activity is ramping up in the North East as Newcastle continue their pursuit of a West Ham youngster, while also preparing for the potential departure of Jonjo Shelvey.
Manager Eddie Howe, who is enjoying a sensational season with the Magpies, remains hopeful of signing 21-year-old full-back Harrison Ashby.
The player signed his first pro contract with West Ham back in 2020 and made his debut that year when coming off the bench in the EFL Cup against Charlton.
Ashby made his Premier League bow in December 2021 when he once again came off the bench in a 2-0 away defeat to Arsenal.
While the right-back ponders a move to the north, one player set to move away is Karl Darlow.
The goalkeeper is set to join Championship outfit Hull on loan.
Another man on his way out is midfielder Jonjo Shelvey who is currently in talks with Nottingham Forest over a permanent switch.
When asked about the transfer, Howe said: "Jonjo, I believe, is talking to Nottingham Forest. I don't know what stage that is at currently.
"Jonjo has been a huge player for this football club over the last seven years. He's been a very important part of my squad since I've been here. Unfortunately he's had injuries this season.
"Certainly I would not want to lose him, but I have to understand again, similar to the Chris Wood situation really, the player's wishes with his contract coming to an end this summer."
Shelvey joined the club in 2016 from Swansea and has made 202 appearances across all competitions.
