QPR are one of three Championship sides interested in taking Newcastle United’s Harrison Ashby on loan. The right-back spent last season on loan at Swansea City making 16 appearances across all competitions, although did have his injury woes.
Newcastle are said to be open to letting Ashby leave on loan, although would need guarantees over his playing time. While QPR are interested in the full-back, they’re certainly not alone, with the likes of Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City also keen on his services.
QPR interested in signing Harrison Ashby
Ashby was a long-term target for Newcastle having attempted to sign him early in the January transfer window of 2023, before landing the defender on deadline day. The former West Ham man has not yet been able to make the grade in the North East and could be set for another loan spell.
The right-back is yet to make his competitive debut for the Magpies, so a full season of first-team football in the Championships seems his best option. While he only made 16 appearances for Swansea last term, his injuries didn’t allow him to make many more.
According to Alan Nixon, three Championship clubs are considering temporarily signing Ashby. QPR, Stoke, and Blackburn are the ones being credited with an interest, so it may well come down to who can guarantee him the most game time.
Another chance for Ashby to impress
While Ashby will be disappointed at his lack of game time at St James’ Park, a solid season in England’s second tier could set him up for a stellar career. While the Magpies do have both Kieran Trippier and Tino Livramento, if Ashby can impress on loan this campaign, he may find himself a new permanent home.
Given how the Championship season has started, Blackburn could be the best side for Ashby to join as they’re unbeaten in their opening three league games. However, if they’re already playing so well, doubts may be cast over how much game time could come his way.
Why would Ashby pick QPR?
So, moving back to London after leaving West Ham in 2023 and joining QPR for a full season seems sensible. The fact that Ashby would have friends and family around him once again may allow him to settle and develop into the player Newcastle likely thought he could be.
With many loan deals for players leaving Premier League clubs to one a division below them, it could run into deadline day. This deal may depend on what the Magpies do in these final few days, but the fact Ashby has so many options points towards him being a highly-regarded talent.