New Newcastle transfer chief Dan Ashworth goes big as report names four exciting targets

Newcastle’s incoming new transfer chief Dan Ashworth is already working on bringing four top targets to St James’ Park this summer, according to a report.

The PIF regime got off to a strong start in January with the recruitment of five solid signings. Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett and Dan Burn all arrived with the brief of helping Newcastle survive.

The most costly of these – £35m Guimaraes – might have to wait a while before having an impact on Tyneside.

However, the next phase of their plans to become a force again in English football are already underway. Indeed, the forthcoming key appointment of Ashworth certainly grabs some headlines.

While his appointment is not yet official, he was given permission to speak with Newcastle before Christmas.

And Brighton on Monday confirmed his resignation in what is likely to be a pre-cursor to his appointment on Tyneside.

Now, according to the Daily Express, work has already begun on Newcastle’s summer recruitment drive.

The paper claims Ashworth already has four targets in mind for the summer window. And work appears to be underway for their signings later this year.

First up is a player Ashworth knows well in Adam Webster.

The Brighton defender was the subject of a Newcastle enquiry in January. And while the Seagulls were unwilling to sell, they did allow Burn to leave in a £13m deal.

Newcastle ready to spend big

The paper reckons he will be joined on Tyneside over the summer in a deal that could cost as much as £40m.

Newcastle are also tracking Sven Botman and Diego Carlos, though the former appears destined to move elsewhere in the Premier League.

The Magpies are also reportedly preparing a blockbuster move for Conor Gallagher.

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The midfielder has proven a smash hit during his loan spell at Crystal Palace, scoring seven goals and registering three assists so far.

A return to parent club Chelsea looks likely. However, the paper claims he is wanted by Newcastle in a deal that could earn Thomas Tuchel’s side as much as £50m.

Ashworth transfer targets include two exciting attackers 

The incoming new Newcastle transfer guru also wants to bolster his attack and has eyes on two players.

As per the article, they claim Blackburn frontman Ben Brereton Diaz tops their wish list.

The Stoke-born Chile striker has 20 goals to his name this season and looks likely to leave if Rovers fail to secure promotion.

He is also being watched by West Ham and Leeds.

But the sheer financial mite of Newcastle places them as favourites to sign him, per the report.

Ashworth is also planning another raid on Brighton for exciting Belgian winger Leandro Trossard.

The Magpies currently have a space to fill on the wing with Ryan Fraser and Miguel Almiron sharing the role.

And with Allan Saint-Maximin assured of his place, the addition of Trossard on the other flank would give Newcastle some serious flair.

With a deal due to expire in 2023, Brighton fear Dan Ashworth is looking to sign the 27-year-old on the cheap.

The Belgian has four goals to his name this season.

READ MORE: Guimaraes opens up on Newcastle’s short-term and long-term goals