West Ham source believes Celtic could sign Harrison Ashby on loan

By Euan Davidson

August 31, 2021

Scotland youth international and West Ham United prospect Harrison Ashby could be on his way to Celtic on loan, according to a top Hammers source.

ExWHUemployee, a popular “in the know” source for all things Hammers, spoke about the move in a Podcast. The West Ham Way, on Patreon, states that the right-back is being considered for a Parkhead loan move.

Ashby has been a hotly-tipped prospect for a few years now. On the books at Chelsea as a child [The Athletic], the right-back made his Hammers debut in a Carabao Cup win over Charlton Athletic [West Ham United].

Subsequently, he scored for Scotland U21s in a 7-0 rout of San Marino [BBC]. Heralded as an attack-minded modern full-back, reports suggest he has the tools to fit in for Celtic under Postecoglou.

However, with Anthony Ralston performing, and Josip Juranovic also brought in, it’s hard to see where he might fit at Celtic Park.

If the much-hyped West Ham youngster is happy with a squad role, with the chance to develop at Celtic, then power to him.

West Ham United youngster Harrison Ashby: a top talent that Celtic are reportedly keen on

An injury kept him out of action for much of last season. However, it’s barely diminished the hype around the right-back.

A versatile defender, Ashby can also play at either centre-back slot. Or, indeed, on the right of a back-three [Transfermarkt].

While it looks only to be a loan, it’s interesting how similar this move would be to the one made for Jeremie Frimpong in 2019. Ashby has excited coaches, yes, but he’s hardly been a mainstay, even at youth level.

In total, he only made 22 U18 Premier League appearances. Meanwhile at Premier League 2 level, he’s featured 11 times [Transfermarkt]. Yes, his two first-team appearances for West Ham United are important to consider. However, he’s clearly a player who needs regular game-time to develop.

Read more: Celtic striker arrives at new destination