Jesse Marsch could be moving in to sign one for the future as Leeds United plot to raid a Premier League rival…

What’s the word?

As per ExWHUemployee, speaking on his West Ham Way Patreon page, it seems that West Ham United are resigned to the fact that Harrison Ashby will now leave the London Stadium.

The young right-back reportedly rejected the offer of a new deal, and with Newcastle United and the Whites having shown interest in the summer they can be expected to resurrect their interest once again.

Transfer insider Dean Jones reported in September of the east London club’s reluctance to offer him a new bumper deal, as he said to GIVEMESPORT: “They’re very cautious about giving him a big, new contract because of the knock-on effect it might have to other players within the set-up.”

It seems they have opted against the big contract he desires, and will have to now see him exit the club.

Kristensen heir

The 20-year-old has earned praise in recent years for his rapid rise to the outskirts of the first team, culminating in his two appearances for the Hammers in their Europa Conference League run this season.

Boasting incredible energy and the ability to also play right midfield, he clearly has the technical ability to be a success at Elland Road and one day surpass Rasmus Kristensen who would stand in his way.

Jesse Marsch would likely demand a lot of effort and some form of attacking presence from his fullbacks, and in Ashby, he would get both of these in abundance.

He already boasts one assist in just four Premier League 2 appearances this season, and last season scored twice and assisted five more in the same competition.

His performances have led to a total of seven well-earned senior appearances for the club, marking how well-thought-of he is.

Even journalists Sam Delaney and Roshane Thomas, speaking on the U Irons Podcast, were full of praise for him nearly two years ago.

They noted that “he looks like a really good player” before dubbing him “one to watch” and outlining his physical assets too: “He’s big as well. He’s like a big unit. He’s only young, but he’s like a giant. Usually, you’re used to seeing smaller players in those wing-back positions, but he looked big, strong, he was very fearless, decent on the ball.” 

Although Leeds’ £10m summer signing has enjoyed a solid start to life in Yorkshire, boasting a 6.95 average SofaScore rating, it is clear that Ashby has all the attributes to soon surpass him.

It would mark a huge coup to snatch him from a Premier League rival.