Magpies Attempt to Steal Ashton

Reports today suggest that Newcastle will offer West Ham £12 million for Dean Ashton. Apparently Ashton is seen as the natural successor to Alan Shearer. It is highly unlikely however that West Ham would even consider such a low offer, especially as 15% would immediately go to the Canaries, because of a sell on clause in the player's contract.

The other question is whether Ashton himself would want to leave a club playing in Europe for one that will be battling against relegation.