Source: Northern_Echo
Hughton wants Simpson to stay
NEWCASTLE boss Chris Hughton will try to turn Danny Simpson's loan deal into a permanent transfer when his current arrangement comes to an end in late December.[LNB] Simpson is due to return to his permanent employers, Manchester United, when his three-month loan deal expires at the turn of the year, but Hughton will do all he can to secure the defender's services on a full-time basis.[LNB] Simpson has started 13 matches since moving to St James' Park in August, and developed into a key constituent of a Magpies defence that has conceded less goals than any other team in the Championship.[LNB] The Salford-born full-back has impressed, and Hughton will contact Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson this month to inquire about his possible availability.[LNB] Sources in Manchester claim Ferguson has written off Simpson's prospects of breaking through at Old Trafford, and the Scotsman is expected to sanction the 22-yearold's departure.[LNB] However, Newcastle are unlikely to be the only club interested in securing his services, and Hughton could face a battle to persuade Mike Ashley to stump up the cash that will be needed to sign him permanently.[LNB] Managing director Derek Llambias last week claimed that Hughton would be allowed to spend £1m-or-so, if it was on the right player, who preferably would be under the age of 23.[LNB] Simpson falls into that category, but it remains to be seen whether Ferguson deems £1m a high enough price for a player who boasts Premier League experience with Blackburn Rovers.[LNB]
