It’s now come to light that Dan Ashworth turned down the chance to sign Aston Villa player at Newcastle United

Newcastle United failed to secure any reinforcements during the January 2024 transfer window despite significant efforts to bolster their squad. The club was heavily linked with Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City, and for a time, the midfielder seemed poised to make the switch to St. James’ Park.

However, Newcastle ultimately decided against pursuing a deal for Phillips due to concerns surrounding Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR). This cautious approach reflected the club’s commitment to staying within financial constraints, a decision that proved prudent given the challenges Newcastle faced in adhering to PSR without adding a high-cost player like Phillips.

While Phillips garnered attention as a potential addition, he was not the only player Newcastle explored signing during that period. Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie revealed that Donyell Malen, the Dutch attacker from Borussia Dortmund, was also offered to Newcastle in January 2024.

According to Downie, Dan Ashworth, then Newcastle’s sporting director, engaged in discussions with Dortmund and Malen’s representatives. Despite these talks, Newcastle declined to pursue the deal, likely influenced by the financial implications of their PSR situation.

Fast forward to 2025, and the opportunity to sign Malen presented itself once again. Sources, including the Geordie Boot Boys, confirmed that Borussia Dortmund offered Malen to Newcastle during this year’s January transfer window.

However, for the second consecutive year, Newcastle opted against signing the Dutch international. Instead, Aston Villa seized the opportunity, securing Malen’s services for an initial fee of £21 million.

Under Unai Emery’s guidance, Villa aims to integrate Malen into their squad as they look to compete directly with Newcastle for a coveted Champions League spot.

Malen’s transfer to Villa raises questions about whether Newcastle missed an opportunity to address a pressing need in their squad. The Magpies are in clear need of a right winger, and Malen’s skill set could have filled that void. Known for his versatility and attacking prowess, Malen might have complemented Newcastle’s existing offensive lineup.

However, the club’s decision to pass on him suggests they were not fully convinced of his suitability for their system or long-term plans.

While Villa will hope to capitalize on Malen’s abilities, Newcastle remains focused on their broader ambitions. The decision to forgo a deal for the Dutch forward reflects the club’s disciplined approach to recruitment, particularly as they aim to build sustainably under Eddie Howe’s leadership.

By prioritizing financial stability and carefully evaluating potential signings, Newcastle demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that every acquisition aligns with their strategic objectives.

The coming months will reveal whether Newcastle’s choice to decline Malen’s services was a calculated move or a missed opportunity. As Villa integrates Malen into their squad, the Magpies will soon have the chance to observe his impact firsthand, particularly as the two clubs vie for a top-four finish in the Premier League.

With Champions League qualification at stake, the rivalry between Newcastle and Villa intensifies, adding further intrigue to the decisions made in this transfer window.

Newcastle’s cautious approach in the market may frustrate some fans eager to see high-profile signings, but it underscores the club’s commitment to balancing ambition with responsibility. While Malen’s move to Aston Villa could prove successful, Newcastle’s focus remains on developing a squad capable of consistent success, both domestically and in Europe.

Time will tell whether this measured strategy pays dividends, as the Magpies aim to solidify their position among the Premier League elite.