Harrison Ashby Secures Bradford City Loan Move in Search of First-Team Football

Newcastle Defender Moves to League One

Bradford City have confirmed the signing of Newcastle United defender Harrison Ashby on loan deals until the end of the season. The 24-year-old right-back joins the Bantams as they pursue consecutive promotions, currently sitting in a strong position in League One following their promotion from League Two last term.

Why This Move Matters

Harrison Ashby is a right-back for Newcastle United who was signed from West Ham for £3m in January 2023. Despite spending three years at St James’ Park, Ashby has not made a senior appearance for Newcastle United. The Scottish defender has previously spent time on loan at Swansea City and QPR, where he played 31 times for QPR in all competitions last season.

Sheffield United Interest Revealed

Before his move to Bradford was finalised, Newcastle United man Harrison Ashby was on Sheffield United’s right-back shortlist. The Championship side ultimately opted for Wolves’ Ki-Jana Hoever instead, but Sheffield United may well be intrigued spectators as they will need a long-term right-back solution in the summer, and if Ashby impresses with the Bantams, he will reappear on the SUFC transfer radar.

What’s Next for Ashby

This loan move represents a crucial opportunity for Ashby to gain regular first-team experience. The former Scotland U21 international will be playing in a high-flying Bradford City side and holding down an influential role for a promotion-chasing outfit could kick his career into action. With his contract situation uncertain at Newcastle, strong performances at Valley Parade could determine his future prospects in professional football. Bradford manager Graham Alexander will hope Ashby’s experience brings added quality to their promotion push.